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New Zealand Ever After #4
Kiwi Gold
I'm an adventurer, not a girl-dad.
When you grow up with a single mum and quadruplet baby sisters, you find out two things. You can change two diapers at once, and you don't want to. Anyway, my job was finding gold, and however much I liked New Zealand, it had already been explored.
Rescuing a woman dressed in a nightdress at a costume ball? That worked for me. And holding her up against the wall to shield her from the cops was pure enjoyment.
Driving with her to a barbecue, a fruit salad in my lap and her twins--her girl twins--in the back seat? Out of my comfort zone.
And that was before she started asking me for dating lessons and wondering how to explain that she couldn’t have sex before marriage.
I had it under control, though. I was coping. Until those four sisters of mine decided to go looking for their sperm donor.
When you grow up with a single mum and quadruplet baby sisters, you find out two things. You can change two diapers at once, and you don't want to. Anyway, my job was finding gold, and however much I liked New Zealand, it had already been explored.
Rescuing a woman dressed in a nightdress at a costume ball? That worked for me. And holding her up against the wall to shield her from the cops was pure enjoyment.
Driving with her to a barbecue, a fruit salad in my lap and her twins--her girl twins--in the back seat? Out of my comfort zone.
And that was before she started asking me for dating lessons and wondering how to explain that she couldn’t have sex before marriage.
I had it under control, though. I was coping. Until those four sisters of mine decided to go looking for their sperm donor.
461 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2022
358 people are currently reading
107 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 88 reviews
March 29, 2022
5 Star Review of Kiwi Gold (New Zealand Ever After #4) by Rosalind James by Rosalind James
From the first to the last chapter I was riveted to the story. Ms. James writes with such expression that I find myself transported to New Zealand and can easily picture it.
From the moment they met at a masked Shakespeare party there was a connection between Lachlan and Laila. I loved these characters, they were so easy to relate to, both separately and especially as a couple.
Set in Dunedin, a smaller town than other main ones in New Zealand this story has issues which I have come to expect from stories set in a small town. Every one has an opinion and they are all in one another’s business. I loved Laila’s daughters Yasmin and Amira and the relationship that they forge with Lachlan.
There were moments where I cried and moments where I laughed reading this book. It was emotional well written and is a story of learning to trust and of finding love in the most unexpected places.
From the first to the last chapter I was riveted to the story. Ms. James writes with such expression that I find myself transported to New Zealand and can easily picture it.
From the moment they met at a masked Shakespeare party there was a connection between Lachlan and Laila. I loved these characters, they were so easy to relate to, both separately and especially as a couple.
Set in Dunedin, a smaller town than other main ones in New Zealand this story has issues which I have come to expect from stories set in a small town. Every one has an opinion and they are all in one another’s business. I loved Laila’s daughters Yasmin and Amira and the relationship that they forge with Lachlan.
There were moments where I cried and moments where I laughed reading this book. It was emotional well written and is a story of learning to trust and of finding love in the most unexpected places.
April 6, 2022
3.5 stars. Definitely a non-cliche contemporary romance. While I liked both Laila and Lachlan, their relationship was a bit too slow-burn for me. Their families were complicated (to the extreme!) and intertwined with each other in unexpected ways. For me this detracted from the romance a bit. The secondary characters and their stories in this case played too big a part, and I wanted less of them and more of Laila and Lachlan.
For me, some of the odd coincidences in the storyline were a little too far-fetched and hard to believe. I also wanted more of the beautiful New Zealand settings that often play a part in Ms James' books. They were there, but for me not enough. There were some lovely moments in the book though, and I plan to reread at some future date. Perhaps on a second read I might connect better with the book. So, an enjoyable read, but at this point not my fav of Ms James' books.
For me, some of the odd coincidences in the storyline were a little too far-fetched and hard to believe. I also wanted more of the beautiful New Zealand settings that often play a part in Ms James' books. They were there, but for me not enough. There were some lovely moments in the book though, and I plan to reread at some future date. Perhaps on a second read I might connect better with the book. So, an enjoyable read, but at this point not my fav of Ms James' books.
March 30, 2022
Rosalind James really knows how to paint pictures with her words, her characters and her stories. She can transport you to New Zealand even if you have never visited and that’s exactly what she does with Lachlan and Laila’s journey in Kiwi Gold (New Zealand Ever After #4).
From the moment these two meet at a masked ball a bond is formed and the connection is strong but living in the small town of Dunedin means everyone is in everyone’s business and that means the path to happiness was never going to be easy. It seems fate is determined to push these two together because the morning after Laila flees the ball finds her extremely unwell and her twin daughters decide she needs an ambulance and it’s the new next door neighbor that comes to the rescue and that happens to be no other than Lachlan. What follows is an entertaining and emotional journey that will appeal to all romance lovers.
This is wonderful romance with all the feels, I smiled, I swooned, I giggled and I shed a tear but every emotion I felt on this roller coaster was worth it and I highly recommend this gem of a read.
From the moment these two meet at a masked ball a bond is formed and the connection is strong but living in the small town of Dunedin means everyone is in everyone’s business and that means the path to happiness was never going to be easy. It seems fate is determined to push these two together because the morning after Laila flees the ball finds her extremely unwell and her twin daughters decide she needs an ambulance and it’s the new next door neighbor that comes to the rescue and that happens to be no other than Lachlan. What follows is an entertaining and emotional journey that will appeal to all romance lovers.
This is wonderful romance with all the feels, I smiled, I swooned, I giggled and I shed a tear but every emotion I felt on this roller coaster was worth it and I highly recommend this gem of a read.
March 4, 2022
Rosalind James does not write to a formula. Each new book comes as a surprise. This one resonated with me as it focuses on women abandoned by inadequate partners, left to raise their children in strained circumstances. The plot relies on interconnecting relationships, but anyone from a small town knows that this is exactly what happens when the population is small. It is set in Dunedin, but its themes of betrayal and loyalty are universal. It’s a book I already know I’ll be re reading, there is so much in it, with enough humour to lighten the heartache. I suspect we’ll be seeing more of some of the characters in future volumes.
March 1, 2022
Well ... it's different. Definitely NOT a cooky-cutter romance. But that's why I love Rosalind's stories!! I learn a LOT. I'm always Googling stuff as I read. It's always an adventure. This one made me cry a number of times. (That's good!! I love to get emotionally involved, especially when I read a romance.) But I also laughed a lot. Getting towards the end, I had NO CLUE how she would pull it all together ... but, of course, she did.
Highly recommended!!!
Highly recommended!!!
May 8, 2022
Laila and Lachlan meet by happenstance New Year's Eve at a masked ball when he rescues her from an overzealous admirer. To their surprise they both live in the same converted church (he was away when she moved in).
March 30, 2022
I’ve read all of Rosalind’s books set in New Zealand and have loved every one of them. Kiwi Gold is another exceptional addition to the New Zealand Ever After series.
As with a number of her other books, this one is written in 3rd person dual POV. Rosalind is an expert at changing POV between the two main characters while not breaking the flow of the narrative or confusing the reader.
While the Escape to NZ series had a thread of similarity running through the series (all the MMC were rugby players or coaches) each of the couples in the New Zealand Ever After series are quite different, which is refreshing.
This book started off with a bang with Lachlan, the MMC having to run for his life while working in the highlands of PNG. It then introduces Laila, the FMC, struggling to establish her new life with her twin daughters after losing her husband. Lachlan and Laila seem like polar opposites and are both harbouring hurts and resentments. But as the book goes on, they find out they are exactly what each other needs.
Normally in Rosalind’s New Zealand books, the scenery and weather are almost like characters in their own rights. While they were certainly still played a role in this book, I felt this story focused much more intensely on the characters and their development. It’s intimate and personal rather than being claustrophobic.
Rosalind is a master of slow burn, luxuriously written romance. I describe it as “slow food” writing – it is to be savoured, not rushed. I’m always sad when I get to the last page, but like a good meal, the taste and the feeling lingered long after closed the book (or, in my case, turned off my e-reader).
As with a number of her other books, this one is written in 3rd person dual POV. Rosalind is an expert at changing POV between the two main characters while not breaking the flow of the narrative or confusing the reader.
While the Escape to NZ series had a thread of similarity running through the series (all the MMC were rugby players or coaches) each of the couples in the New Zealand Ever After series are quite different, which is refreshing.
This book started off with a bang with Lachlan, the MMC having to run for his life while working in the highlands of PNG. It then introduces Laila, the FMC, struggling to establish her new life with her twin daughters after losing her husband. Lachlan and Laila seem like polar opposites and are both harbouring hurts and resentments. But as the book goes on, they find out they are exactly what each other needs.
Normally in Rosalind’s New Zealand books, the scenery and weather are almost like characters in their own rights. While they were certainly still played a role in this book, I felt this story focused much more intensely on the characters and their development. It’s intimate and personal rather than being claustrophobic.
Rosalind is a master of slow burn, luxuriously written romance. I describe it as “slow food” writing – it is to be savoured, not rushed. I’m always sad when I get to the last page, but like a good meal, the taste and the feeling lingered long after closed the book (or, in my case, turned off my e-reader).
April 1, 2022
Another wonderful unique New Zealand romance from Rosalind James! I initially became a fan of Rosalind James because I loved her sports romance series, often set in New Zealand. Rosalind has a knack for writing fascinating characters with varied backgrounds, so every story is one of a kind. The New Zealand Ever After series has included a variety of great characters with their stories of finding a wonderful life partner.
Kiwi Gold is no exception, with Laila, a widow who had been raised traditionally Muslim, trying to make an independent life for herself and her two young daughters; and Lachlan, an independent geologist who was raised in a non-traditional household. Laila and Lachlan are a study in contrasts, but are drawn to each other from their first meeting. Their relationship story is heavily influenced by the families they were raised in, which add conflict and humor to their budding romance.
A major treat in Kiwi Gold is to spend time with favorite characters from the previous New Zealand Ever After books, especially with Poppy, who is a close friend to Laila.
I highly recommend Kiwi Gold!
Kiwi Gold is no exception, with Laila, a widow who had been raised traditionally Muslim, trying to make an independent life for herself and her two young daughters; and Lachlan, an independent geologist who was raised in a non-traditional household. Laila and Lachlan are a study in contrasts, but are drawn to each other from their first meeting. Their relationship story is heavily influenced by the families they were raised in, which add conflict and humor to their budding romance.
A major treat in Kiwi Gold is to spend time with favorite characters from the previous New Zealand Ever After books, especially with Poppy, who is a close friend to Laila.
I highly recommend Kiwi Gold!
April 10, 2022
I really enjoyed this one!
May 29, 2022
Not my usual read, thought I’d give it a go. It seemed a bit all over the place. My favourite part was Lachlan’s lovely sharing of the myth of Matariki.
A very popular author, just not for me.
A very popular author, just not for me.
March 7, 2022
This is a lovely story. It is very romantic, very funny in places, with a tiny seam running through it that is emotionally very sad. It really makes you think!
Lachlan and Laila meet by chance at a masked Shakespeare party. Neither really wished to go, but Lachlan has gone dressed as Hamlet, Laila has gone as Desdemona. He rescues her from a man who won’t take no for an answer, and they then spend the evening dancing together. However, like Cinderella Laila runs away without telling Lachlan much about herself. She is a bit drunk, and when her two daughters get up in the morning she is very unwell. The twins, Yasmin and Amira are extremely bright, but they need help, so taking their three legged dog Long John with her Amira knocks on the next-door neighbours door to ask to borrow a phone so she can telephone for an ambulance. Lachlan, the new next-door neighbour, instead goes with her back to her house, and discovers Laila. By the time she has recovered she finds that he has made breakfast for her daughters.
There is an instant spark between them, but a lot of reasons why a union between them will be difficult. Rosalind explores many avenues in this story, single parent families, religion, death; there are a lot of things to think about here. But the strong attachment between Lachlan and Laila shines through all the way through the story. It is quite unconventional but all the more satisfying for that. Well worth reading.
Lachlan and Laila meet by chance at a masked Shakespeare party. Neither really wished to go, but Lachlan has gone dressed as Hamlet, Laila has gone as Desdemona. He rescues her from a man who won’t take no for an answer, and they then spend the evening dancing together. However, like Cinderella Laila runs away without telling Lachlan much about herself. She is a bit drunk, and when her two daughters get up in the morning she is very unwell. The twins, Yasmin and Amira are extremely bright, but they need help, so taking their three legged dog Long John with her Amira knocks on the next-door neighbours door to ask to borrow a phone so she can telephone for an ambulance. Lachlan, the new next-door neighbour, instead goes with her back to her house, and discovers Laila. By the time she has recovered she finds that he has made breakfast for her daughters.
There is an instant spark between them, but a lot of reasons why a union between them will be difficult. Rosalind explores many avenues in this story, single parent families, religion, death; there are a lot of things to think about here. But the strong attachment between Lachlan and Laila shines through all the way through the story. It is quite unconventional but all the more satisfying for that. Well worth reading.
April 3, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Like all of the other Rosalind James books I’ve read, Kiwi Gold also has really well developed complex characters. Even though this is book four in the New Zealand Ever After series, it can be read as a standalone. The characters from the first three books pop up, which is nice for those of us who’ve read them.
This is an opposites attract, slow burn romance told from alternating points of view between Laila and Lachlan. Be forewarned, there are a lot of ‘L’ names.
Of the four this is probably my least favorite. Too many coincidences for me. I guess, however, in a country of islands of just under five million people coincidences are bound to happen. It’s the bit of the story that happens in the U.S. that is a bit too far fetched to me. None of these coincidences/twists are hard to figure out. They’re so absurd they’re funny.
I also had a really hard time connecting to Laila. She’s a thirty-four-year-old woman who’s a widow with twin six-year-old girls and an non-practicing Muslim, but also sorta practicing. She’s just too naive and completely unaware of what’s considered “normal” for my liking.
Lachlan is a globetrotting exploration geologist with quadruplet sisters eight years his junior who doesn’t want to get married and settle down. But when he meets a mysterious woman, Laila, at a Shakespeare themed New Year’s Eve ball he begins to change his mind even if he doesn’t realize it at the time. I wish we got more of Lachlan’s sisters, especially Lexi, they were a lively bunch.
Kiwi Gold is a fun ride that I can envision as a movie or tv show - along the lines of Soap Dish - just don’t go into this one expecting realistic, you have to suspend belief a little more than usual.
Like all of the other Rosalind James books I’ve read, Kiwi Gold also has really well developed complex characters. Even though this is book four in the New Zealand Ever After series, it can be read as a standalone. The characters from the first three books pop up, which is nice for those of us who’ve read them.
This is an opposites attract, slow burn romance told from alternating points of view between Laila and Lachlan. Be forewarned, there are a lot of ‘L’ names.
Of the four this is probably my least favorite. Too many coincidences for me. I guess, however, in a country of islands of just under five million people coincidences are bound to happen. It’s the bit of the story that happens in the U.S. that is a bit too far fetched to me. None of these coincidences/twists are hard to figure out. They’re so absurd they’re funny.
I also had a really hard time connecting to Laila. She’s a thirty-four-year-old woman who’s a widow with twin six-year-old girls and an non-practicing Muslim, but also sorta practicing. She’s just too naive and completely unaware of what’s considered “normal” for my liking.
Lachlan is a globetrotting exploration geologist with quadruplet sisters eight years his junior who doesn’t want to get married and settle down. But when he meets a mysterious woman, Laila, at a Shakespeare themed New Year’s Eve ball he begins to change his mind even if he doesn’t realize it at the time. I wish we got more of Lachlan’s sisters, especially Lexi, they were a lively bunch.
Kiwi Gold is a fun ride that I can envision as a movie or tv show - along the lines of Soap Dish - just don’t go into this one expecting realistic, you have to suspend belief a little more than usual.
July 3, 2025
Rosalind James never disappoints. This book centers on a young widow of an unfeeling husband, left with 6 year old twin daughters. Laila is beginning her career as a newborn photographer, and juggling money and child care issues. Lachlan is an independent archeologist who travels the world finding precious ore for companies to mine. It can get dangerous.
Laila is trying to break free of the shackles of her Muslim religion. She does not want to be sinful, other than learning how to dress and show her legs and arms, etc, and how to date. She meets Lachlan at a New Years Eve party where he rescues her from a man who doesn’t understand the word no. They enjoy an unexpectedly beautiful night, but when she sees that he wants to kiss her, and she wants to kiss him back, she runs like Cinderella. The next morning she is hung over from 3 glasses of champagne, and one of her twins insists mommy needs and ambulance. She runs next door to borrow a phone and guess who the new neighbor is? He gets involved, gives Laila medicine and cooks breakfast for the girls. It all snowballs from there.
There are lots of interference and drama from family. You won’t believe who his adult quadruplet sisters bio dad is! All the time you see them getting closer and falling in love.
This is a must read, as are all of Rosalind James books. "I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it."
Laila is trying to break free of the shackles of her Muslim religion. She does not want to be sinful, other than learning how to dress and show her legs and arms, etc, and how to date. She meets Lachlan at a New Years Eve party where he rescues her from a man who doesn’t understand the word no. They enjoy an unexpectedly beautiful night, but when she sees that he wants to kiss her, and she wants to kiss him back, she runs like Cinderella. The next morning she is hung over from 3 glasses of champagne, and one of her twins insists mommy needs and ambulance. She runs next door to borrow a phone and guess who the new neighbor is? He gets involved, gives Laila medicine and cooks breakfast for the girls. It all snowballs from there.
There are lots of interference and drama from family. You won’t believe who his adult quadruplet sisters bio dad is! All the time you see them getting closer and falling in love.
This is a must read, as are all of Rosalind James books. "I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it."
February 4, 2023
Below par
Rosalind James generally writes interesting, believable characters and was 50% successful doing that in this book. Laila, Muslim-raised, widowed, mother of twins trying to find out who she is after her husband’s death is reasonably believable even if the premise binding her to Lachlan, our hero is not.
Lachlan is as lack-luster a make protagonist as I’ve ever read from this author. He’s featured in the high action opening scene of the novel, but after that he becomes flatly uninteresting.
I just didn’t find this book to Ms. James’ standard. The characters were flat, the pacing slow, and the plot uninteresting.
Rosalind James generally writes interesting, believable characters and was 50% successful doing that in this book. Laila, Muslim-raised, widowed, mother of twins trying to find out who she is after her husband’s death is reasonably believable even if the premise binding her to Lachlan, our hero is not.
Lachlan is as lack-luster a make protagonist as I’ve ever read from this author. He’s featured in the high action opening scene of the novel, but after that he becomes flatly uninteresting.
I just didn’t find this book to Ms. James’ standard. The characters were flat, the pacing slow, and the plot uninteresting.
April 18, 2022
This book missed the mark for me. Lachlan Hughes is a geologist who searches for gold and other precious metals. He meets Layla Drake, a single mother and widow. I never really got a clear picture of Lachlan, and I couldn't connect or relate to Layla. This was a very slow burn romance.
April 2, 2022
Kiwi Gold is pure gold! It’s earned 5 stars from me for the in-depth characters, slow angsty burn, and fabulous plot
Kiwi Gold is book #4 in Rosalind James’ New Zealand Ever After series … it’s the best kind of series book. It can be read as a standalone but includes favorite characters from the previous three books. If you haven’t read any of Ms. James’ New Zealand Ever After books, download this one … but prepare yourself to download the others in a series binge (perhaps you cough a bit so you can remain in bed and read!)
I’ve been with the author since her start … I’ve read every one of her books and can say this one is the one with the most in-depth and well developed characters. She’s got a gift of weaving a tale with plots and subplots that weave and twist together into a glorious story that will have you thinking about the plot for days after you finish the book … but the characters really are the crowning glory.
Laila is caught between two worlds. When her Arabic mum married her European father, he converted to Islam. When Laila married a New Zealander … and one of the country’s proud sons … she kept her Arabic / Islamic culture. She’s widowed now, living with the long arm of a false legacy of her dead husband, and is trying to keep things together for their twin girls. She’s perpetually short on cash, long on …. well, longing … and surrounded by some of the best En Zed has to offer (characters from previous books).
Lachlan, Laila’s next door neighbor, is a geological explorer just like her father … he’s got the wanderlust bug and is known to never return to the same woman twice … but there is something about Laila and her beautify twins that is both familiar and mysterious. Despite his best efforts, he’s continually being pulled back into the orbit of his large family … all sisters … and divorced mother.
As Laila decides she’s in need of some education so she can break out of her culturally restrictive dating limits, she asks Lachlan for help. Amid all of this is a fist-fight at a masked ball, a big fail on see through clothing that is an attempt to be modest, a near competition to win a new geological contract, a surprise sperm donor, a three legged dog, and passionate tension that will set your e-reader on fire.
I loved Laila and Lachlan’s angsty-slow burn … and you will too!
I received an ARC from the author and am happy to leave this review to share how terrific I found Kiwi Gold to be.
Kiwi Gold is book #4 in Rosalind James’ New Zealand Ever After series … it’s the best kind of series book. It can be read as a standalone but includes favorite characters from the previous three books. If you haven’t read any of Ms. James’ New Zealand Ever After books, download this one … but prepare yourself to download the others in a series binge (perhaps you cough a bit so you can remain in bed and read!)
I’ve been with the author since her start … I’ve read every one of her books and can say this one is the one with the most in-depth and well developed characters. She’s got a gift of weaving a tale with plots and subplots that weave and twist together into a glorious story that will have you thinking about the plot for days after you finish the book … but the characters really are the crowning glory.
Laila is caught between two worlds. When her Arabic mum married her European father, he converted to Islam. When Laila married a New Zealander … and one of the country’s proud sons … she kept her Arabic / Islamic culture. She’s widowed now, living with the long arm of a false legacy of her dead husband, and is trying to keep things together for their twin girls. She’s perpetually short on cash, long on …. well, longing … and surrounded by some of the best En Zed has to offer (characters from previous books).
Lachlan, Laila’s next door neighbor, is a geological explorer just like her father … he’s got the wanderlust bug and is known to never return to the same woman twice … but there is something about Laila and her beautify twins that is both familiar and mysterious. Despite his best efforts, he’s continually being pulled back into the orbit of his large family … all sisters … and divorced mother.
As Laila decides she’s in need of some education so she can break out of her culturally restrictive dating limits, she asks Lachlan for help. Amid all of this is a fist-fight at a masked ball, a big fail on see through clothing that is an attempt to be modest, a near competition to win a new geological contract, a surprise sperm donor, a three legged dog, and passionate tension that will set your e-reader on fire.
I loved Laila and Lachlan’s angsty-slow burn … and you will too!
I received an ARC from the author and am happy to leave this review to share how terrific I found Kiwi Gold to be.
February 20, 2025
I seriously struggled with this story.
While I have enjoyed this series, i admit that the New Zealand culture, as it has been portrayed here, is somewhat confusing and complex. Throwing the Muslim religion into the mix made things even more of a ball of yarn. I found myself trying to read and relax, but the ever-changing behaviors, expectations, and nomenclature made me anxious.
The female lead, Laila, is such a complex mix that, frankly, she gave me a headache. I just couldn't grasp all her damage, issues, and challenges. She didn't feel like a complete character but more like a compiled list of attributes that didn't work together. The male lead, Lachlan, was also something of a conglomerates of conflicting elements, less so than the female lead. Still, I had a difficult time understanding how these two characters fit together outside of lust.
The love story/$exual aspect of this story felt like it really dragged on and on and on, to the point I wasn't invested anymore. And the number of family members/friends who were pointedly involved in some extremely private goings-on between the leads was kind of off-putting. Why do family members need to figure into $exual relations? While it may fit into a story on occasion, it doesn't here at all.
The characters of the children have also pushed me away from the story. I don't understand the numerous very difficult and defiant children that appear in every book in this series, always with the explanation that people from NZ are "straightforward." Huh?
After this story in particular, I feel like I need to get teached up on NZ--the types of people there, the Maori and their culture, and why so many of them seem to have red hair. I keep struggling through these stories and not feeling like I really understand the place. I love learning about new and different places/cultures, but this series often feels like a master class, and I'm lagging behind because it's so very immersive.
While I have enjoyed this series, i admit that the New Zealand culture, as it has been portrayed here, is somewhat confusing and complex. Throwing the Muslim religion into the mix made things even more of a ball of yarn. I found myself trying to read and relax, but the ever-changing behaviors, expectations, and nomenclature made me anxious.
The female lead, Laila, is such a complex mix that, frankly, she gave me a headache. I just couldn't grasp all her damage, issues, and challenges. She didn't feel like a complete character but more like a compiled list of attributes that didn't work together. The male lead, Lachlan, was also something of a conglomerates of conflicting elements, less so than the female lead. Still, I had a difficult time understanding how these two characters fit together outside of lust.
The love story/$exual aspect of this story felt like it really dragged on and on and on, to the point I wasn't invested anymore. And the number of family members/friends who were pointedly involved in some extremely private goings-on between the leads was kind of off-putting. Why do family members need to figure into $exual relations? While it may fit into a story on occasion, it doesn't here at all.
The characters of the children have also pushed me away from the story. I don't understand the numerous very difficult and defiant children that appear in every book in this series, always with the explanation that people from NZ are "straightforward." Huh?
After this story in particular, I feel like I need to get teached up on NZ--the types of people there, the Maori and their culture, and why so many of them seem to have red hair. I keep struggling through these stories and not feeling like I really understand the place. I love learning about new and different places/cultures, but this series often feels like a master class, and I'm lagging behind because it's so very immersive.
April 5, 2022
****Audiobook 04/04/22*****
I enjoyed the ebook, but I have to say that I enjoyed the audiobook even more. The accents, the emotion, and getting to hear the NZ words pronounced correctly.
Emma Wilder and Tom Jason brought the characters of Laila and Lachlan to life, as well as the other characters in the book. The feels were more intense, the girls were more heartwarming, everything was just "more".
I have often listened to an audiobook after reading the book and wished that I hadn't. These narrators have done such justice to the book that you can not go wrong with whichever version you choose. I am very appreciative tat I got to listen to the audiobook.
"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.”
******E-book version******
In Kiwi Gold, Rosalind James took me on a journey with varying levels of intensity.
From the beginning when Lachlan and Laila were introduced, knowing they were going to end up meeting and developing a relationship gave me no clues to the paths they were going to take.
I wasn't sure how I felt about Laila at the beginning. Not because I disliked her, but because I couldn't see how she was going to be in a relationship with Lachlan or anyone else. Lachlan seemed so dead set on following his own path, I couldn't see him fitting Mako's or her two girls into his life.
But, this writer did it again. These two individuals had a metamorphosis into a couple, and subsequently a family. It happened so gradually with a few bumps, a few twists and turns, some disapproval, family drama, and a bit of push back.
I loved the hesitation, the patience, the insecurities, the uncertainty, the strength, the faith, the romance, and ultimately the love and sensuality of this story.
The girls were entertaining. The sisters and parents were often irritating. The dialogue was witty, humorous, flirtatious, and sometimes difficult. I was fully engaged in this book from the first to the last page, once again ending with that deep sigh of satisfaction. Just one woman's opinion, lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I enjoyed the ebook, but I have to say that I enjoyed the audiobook even more. The accents, the emotion, and getting to hear the NZ words pronounced correctly.
Emma Wilder and Tom Jason brought the characters of Laila and Lachlan to life, as well as the other characters in the book. The feels were more intense, the girls were more heartwarming, everything was just "more".
I have often listened to an audiobook after reading the book and wished that I hadn't. These narrators have done such justice to the book that you can not go wrong with whichever version you choose. I am very appreciative tat I got to listen to the audiobook.
"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.”
******E-book version******
In Kiwi Gold, Rosalind James took me on a journey with varying levels of intensity.
From the beginning when Lachlan and Laila were introduced, knowing they were going to end up meeting and developing a relationship gave me no clues to the paths they were going to take.
I wasn't sure how I felt about Laila at the beginning. Not because I disliked her, but because I couldn't see how she was going to be in a relationship with Lachlan or anyone else. Lachlan seemed so dead set on following his own path, I couldn't see him fitting Mako's or her two girls into his life.
But, this writer did it again. These two individuals had a metamorphosis into a couple, and subsequently a family. It happened so gradually with a few bumps, a few twists and turns, some disapproval, family drama, and a bit of push back.
I loved the hesitation, the patience, the insecurities, the uncertainty, the strength, the faith, the romance, and ultimately the love and sensuality of this story.
The girls were entertaining. The sisters and parents were often irritating. The dialogue was witty, humorous, flirtatious, and sometimes difficult. I was fully engaged in this book from the first to the last page, once again ending with that deep sigh of satisfaction. Just one woman's opinion, lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 16, 2025
3.5*s Part of series but can be read as standalone. Many characters from the previous books are included so I think it is better if you read some of the earlier books just to get the picture of the varied backgrounds of the players.
Lachlan grew up with quadruplet baby sisters 8 yrs younger than he is and he couldn't wait to get out in the world for adventure! He is a mining expert and finds metal deposits all over the world.
He meet Laila at a masquerade party for New Years Eve as his friends "forced" him to attend. Laila a widow with two 6yr old girls, she is a friend (since childhood) with Poppy who is the sister of Jax book one.
Laila has a past as she was married to a Kiwi icon - an ultra famous skier and climber so famous with olympic gold medals and more. After his death 2 yrs ago, he left Laila and twin daughters broke and his reputation when from hero to zero because the world found out he was a self centered jerk. This caused blowback on Laila and she lost everything (of course he was invincible so had no life insurance). So she moves back home with her father till she can get back on her feet.
She meets and falls for Lachlan who is in the same industry as her father, in fact they are competitors for the same jobs. This causes problems as well as a LOT more family drama.
Can he be involved with a woman with kids? Can she overcome her strict upbringing and dead husband?
Good addition to the series very different from the other ones. This is more emotional and heartbreaking in parts and the children are wonderful addition since they repeat things when they shouldn't and asking embarrassing questions all the time (they are only 6yrs old).
Lachlan grew up with quadruplet baby sisters 8 yrs younger than he is and he couldn't wait to get out in the world for adventure! He is a mining expert and finds metal deposits all over the world.
He meet Laila at a masquerade party for New Years Eve as his friends "forced" him to attend. Laila a widow with two 6yr old girls, she is a friend (since childhood) with Poppy who is the sister of Jax book one.
Laila has a past as she was married to a Kiwi icon - an ultra famous skier and climber so famous with olympic gold medals and more. After his death 2 yrs ago, he left Laila and twin daughters broke and his reputation when from hero to zero because the world found out he was a self centered jerk. This caused blowback on Laila and she lost everything (of course he was invincible so had no life insurance). So she moves back home with her father till she can get back on her feet.
She meets and falls for Lachlan who is in the same industry as her father, in fact they are competitors for the same jobs. This causes problems as well as a LOT more family drama.
Can he be involved with a woman with kids? Can she overcome her strict upbringing and dead husband?
Good addition to the series very different from the other ones. This is more emotional and heartbreaking in parts and the children are wonderful addition since they repeat things when they shouldn't and asking embarrassing questions all the time (they are only 6yrs old).
April 3, 2022
This is not your typical romance story. Lachlan and Laila are seem to be a completely unmatched couple in every way but they are perfect together.
Lachlan is an exploration geologist who spends some time at his flat in an old converted church in New Zealand but most of his time is spent out in the field hunting for rare metals and minerals. After a rather interesting trip, Lachlan is back in En Zed recovering and prepping for his next bidding war against his rival.
Laila and her two young daughters live in the same old converted church that Lachlan does without knowing him. Laila has managed to reinvent her life after the death of her husband. Her late husband was a world famous mountain climber who while a fantastic climber, he was a horrid person to be married to. But Laila would never admit this to anyone. And as a religious Muslim woman in En Zed, she doesn't feel like there is anyone she can talk to. But Lachlan is there to help her in more ways than one. But he needs to decide if he can take on Laila and her girls since he had long ago decided he wasn't ready for kids. After all his mum and sisters required all of his devotion/
But things get interesting when his sisters decide to find out who their sperm donor really is and arrange to meet him in town. And this is where the story really takes off.
This is not a rugby romance but it is definitely a romance. And it is worth blocking out some time to read it all in one go. It is that good!
I did receive a copy of this novel in advance from the author in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
Lachlan is an exploration geologist who spends some time at his flat in an old converted church in New Zealand but most of his time is spent out in the field hunting for rare metals and minerals. After a rather interesting trip, Lachlan is back in En Zed recovering and prepping for his next bidding war against his rival.
Laila and her two young daughters live in the same old converted church that Lachlan does without knowing him. Laila has managed to reinvent her life after the death of her husband. Her late husband was a world famous mountain climber who while a fantastic climber, he was a horrid person to be married to. But Laila would never admit this to anyone. And as a religious Muslim woman in En Zed, she doesn't feel like there is anyone she can talk to. But Lachlan is there to help her in more ways than one. But he needs to decide if he can take on Laila and her girls since he had long ago decided he wasn't ready for kids. After all his mum and sisters required all of his devotion/
But things get interesting when his sisters decide to find out who their sperm donor really is and arrange to meet him in town. And this is where the story really takes off.
This is not a rugby romance but it is definitely a romance. And it is worth blocking out some time to read it all in one go. It is that good!
I did receive a copy of this novel in advance from the author in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
April 2, 2022
Again such a different story in this very versatile series, but again a very good one! I have to admit that I struggled a bit with the story at the beginning (too much happening at once for me or too many coincidences) and did in fact put the book aside for a few days. But when I got back to it I wasn't disappointed because in the end I really enjoyed it! Lachlan is my favorite character here, he is just amazing and such a good man, not the impression you get in the beginning of the story, but the characters develop really well and in unforseen ways sometimes throughout the story. Which of course is one of the reasons that this book is such a good read and hard to put down again (once you get past a certain point for me). I loved the focus on the familiar situation and the way the kids play into the story and the developing romance, this was a side that seemed very real and honest to me and I think it's great, when people acknowledge that having kids is of course amazing but also at the same time hard and very often a struggle, especially when you have to do everything alone. While other authors would describe this in completely unrealistic ways, Rosalind just shows all the mess, the love and the strength behind it and hereby highlights good parents as the everyday heroes they are. I can't wait for the next book in this series and hope to read more about Oriana or maybe Lachlan's sisters as well.
April 3, 2022
This one was a rare miss for me. Don’t get me wrong it is still excellently written, and all the pieces are there but for whatever reason this book just didn’t connect with me. It could have been the mood I was in while I was reading it too, I will have to give it a re-read and see if my opinion changes.
This book had all the components I expect from a Rosalind James book, well flushed out, mature characters, family in all its messy wonderful glory, friendships and love. I will admit to not liking Lachlan at the beginning, he took a while to grow on me, but he did. It’s hard not to like the guy who always steps up. Laila was a wonderful heroine, trying to get her feet under her and live her life on her own terms. Amira and Yasmine are adorable. All the emotion is there, and the characters are solid. I guess my main struggle was two people both falling into something they both adamantly claimed to not want. Lachlan and Laila seemed fundamentally incompatible at the start and while they overcame it just fine, I still don’t know that it would be that easy (not that it was all that easy). There were quite a few deep connections in this book, both family ties and others, some you see coming and some you don’t’. Sorry for the vagueness but trying to avoid spoilers. All in all, it is extremely well written and paced. The characters are complete and interesting. The storyline is interesting and draws you in. It just isn’t my personal favorite, but it is still very good.
This book had all the components I expect from a Rosalind James book, well flushed out, mature characters, family in all its messy wonderful glory, friendships and love. I will admit to not liking Lachlan at the beginning, he took a while to grow on me, but he did. It’s hard not to like the guy who always steps up. Laila was a wonderful heroine, trying to get her feet under her and live her life on her own terms. Amira and Yasmine are adorable. All the emotion is there, and the characters are solid. I guess my main struggle was two people both falling into something they both adamantly claimed to not want. Lachlan and Laila seemed fundamentally incompatible at the start and while they overcame it just fine, I still don’t know that it would be that easy (not that it was all that easy). There were quite a few deep connections in this book, both family ties and others, some you see coming and some you don’t’. Sorry for the vagueness but trying to avoid spoilers. All in all, it is extremely well written and paced. The characters are complete and interesting. The storyline is interesting and draws you in. It just isn’t my personal favorite, but it is still very good.
March 16, 2022
Rosalind James has the knack of creating heroes who just jump off the page as such wonderful people. Not only are they hunky and sexy, but they’re also sensitive and thoughtful men. Lachlan, the hero of this novel, is just delightful. He really understands women because he grew up as the older brother of quadruplet sisters all being raised by a strong, single mother. He is immediately attracted to Laila who lives next door and is a single mother raising twin girls. Lachlan doesn’t think he’s ready for any sort of permanent relationship, but Laila and her daughters really capture his heart. And then he finds out who her father is and all sorts of complications arise. Meanwhile, Laila is learning to live on her own and find her place in life after her rather worthless, but famous husband has died. She’s also struggling with her Muslim faith and her relationship with her father.
I always enjoy how Ms. James weaves a story around interesting and strong characters in the delightful setting of New Zealand. You don’t have to have read her earlier books, but I bet you’ll want to check them out if this is your first novel by her.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from the author; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
I always enjoy how Ms. James weaves a story around interesting and strong characters in the delightful setting of New Zealand. You don’t have to have read her earlier books, but I bet you’ll want to check them out if this is your first novel by her.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from the author; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
April 7, 2022
Another great one from Rosalind James!
This book is about Laila, a widowed, overworked, single mom of two very energetic twins (and a 3 legged dog) who is trying to find her place in the world. Lachlan is a handsome, adventurous, geologist with a bunch of sisters who happens to be her neighbor and her father’s business rival.
Laila’s daughters are determined to have their paths crossing more than they would have on their own. Somehow one of them is getting Lachlan’s attention and help even when Laila doesn’t need it.
Plot twists all over the place with this book! We get pulled into the drama with their extended families on this one. Lachlan’s quadruplet sisters decide they need to find their sperm donor, who turns out to be someone Laila knows very well!
As usual with the New Zealand Ever After books, we see characters from previous books: Jax and Karen, and Poppy and Matiu make their appearances.
This book has many layers. There is humor and romance (as expected with all Rosalind James’s books) and grief, hope, and quite a bit of personal growth for both Laila and Lachlan. Both have pretty big histories to work through.
More than most of the books in the series, this could be read as a stand alone. Though we have characters from past books making appearances, we aren’t introduced to Lachlan and Laila before this book.
This book is about Laila, a widowed, overworked, single mom of two very energetic twins (and a 3 legged dog) who is trying to find her place in the world. Lachlan is a handsome, adventurous, geologist with a bunch of sisters who happens to be her neighbor and her father’s business rival.
Laila’s daughters are determined to have their paths crossing more than they would have on their own. Somehow one of them is getting Lachlan’s attention and help even when Laila doesn’t need it.
Plot twists all over the place with this book! We get pulled into the drama with their extended families on this one. Lachlan’s quadruplet sisters decide they need to find their sperm donor, who turns out to be someone Laila knows very well!
As usual with the New Zealand Ever After books, we see characters from previous books: Jax and Karen, and Poppy and Matiu make their appearances.
This book has many layers. There is humor and romance (as expected with all Rosalind James’s books) and grief, hope, and quite a bit of personal growth for both Laila and Lachlan. Both have pretty big histories to work through.
More than most of the books in the series, this could be read as a stand alone. Though we have characters from past books making appearances, we aren’t introduced to Lachlan and Laila before this book.
January 21, 2023
I borrowed Kiwi Gold ~ New Zealand Ever After ~ Book 4 from the Kindle Unlimited Program and purchased it from Audible too so I could listen to it on a two day auto trip.
I loved the male and female narrator's voices. On a long boring drive that I make a couple of times a year, I always listen to a story because radio reception is poor in long stretches of open road with no towns.
Lachlan is an international gold explorer, likes what he does, enjoys the excitement and travel to remote locations to "use his nose for finding minerals". He comes back to his flat in New Zealand to a new neighbor. Lachlan has four sister, quadruplets so he is a very patient man with children.
Laila is a single mom with five-year-old girls, a dog with just three legs, and a photographer of new born babies. She is also a widow of a once famous New Zealand mountain climber/skiing champion, who died in disgrace.
Lachlan meets Laila at a New Years Eve costume party and he rescues her from a drunk that won't take no for an answer and they escape the cops as he holds her close in a dark corner to hide her nightgown costume. The next day he finds out she is his new neighbor.
Although it seems they have little in common, she asks him to be her dating coach and the fun begins and they find a happy ending.
I loved the male and female narrator's voices. On a long boring drive that I make a couple of times a year, I always listen to a story because radio reception is poor in long stretches of open road with no towns.
Lachlan is an international gold explorer, likes what he does, enjoys the excitement and travel to remote locations to "use his nose for finding minerals". He comes back to his flat in New Zealand to a new neighbor. Lachlan has four sister, quadruplets so he is a very patient man with children.
Laila is a single mom with five-year-old girls, a dog with just three legs, and a photographer of new born babies. She is also a widow of a once famous New Zealand mountain climber/skiing champion, who died in disgrace.
Lachlan meets Laila at a New Years Eve costume party and he rescues her from a drunk that won't take no for an answer and they escape the cops as he holds her close in a dark corner to hide her nightgown costume. The next day he finds out she is his new neighbor.
Although it seems they have little in common, she asks him to be her dating coach and the fun begins and they find a happy ending.
April 4, 2022
There was a lot to like in Kiwi Gold. Lachlan was a complex character as an exploration geologist and the older brother of quadruplets who spent a lot of time babysitting his little sisters. He had convinced himself that kids weren't for him since he spent so much time raising his sisters. Laila is a fairly new widow with twin girls. The opposite of what Lachlan thought he wanted, but he finds himself very attracted to her. Laila is a Muslim with a very strict upbringing. Though she does grieve for her husband, he was a self-centered mountain climber that I loathed by the end of the book. Laila is a newborn photographer - talk about unusual occupations!
Anyway, the writing is up to Rosalind's usual stellar standards, but I had a hard time connecting with Laila at the beginning, but that improved as the story continued. I was interested in learning about her faith and also thought it was interesting that her father was a Norwegian who converted to Islam to be with her mother.
It was nice to see old friends from the earlier Kiwi books - including my faves Poppy and Matui.
Anyway, the writing is up to Rosalind's usual stellar standards, but I had a hard time connecting with Laila at the beginning, but that improved as the story continued. I was interested in learning about her faith and also thought it was interesting that her father was a Norwegian who converted to Islam to be with her mother.
It was nice to see old friends from the earlier Kiwi books - including my faves Poppy and Matui.
March 16, 2022
4.5 stars
Rosalind James breaks the mold again with Kiwi Gold. Each of the New Zealand Ever After books (all loosely related to each other) tackle something with grace, humor, and love. These are not formula based romance stories and this one probably crossed closer to women’s fiction a la more recent Susan Mallery reads.
Laila and Lachlan are both brand new characters, but they are connected with characters we’ve met before, so the meet cute is just that. These are both characters that I enjoyed getting to know. They each had depths that they didn’t expect to find in themselves (or each other).
There are a couple of different things going on in Kiwi Gold that initially seem unrelated and I was intrigued by the story craft used to bring them together. I also found the underlying messages in the story to be powerful. We saw messages of strength, of knowing your own worth, of grief, and love woven into the adventures Lachlan, Laila, and the supporting cast took. Add in a couple of scene stealers and we have another winning stand alone tale.
Rosalind James breaks the mold again with Kiwi Gold. Each of the New Zealand Ever After books (all loosely related to each other) tackle something with grace, humor, and love. These are not formula based romance stories and this one probably crossed closer to women’s fiction a la more recent Susan Mallery reads.
Laila and Lachlan are both brand new characters, but they are connected with characters we’ve met before, so the meet cute is just that. These are both characters that I enjoyed getting to know. They each had depths that they didn’t expect to find in themselves (or each other).
There are a couple of different things going on in Kiwi Gold that initially seem unrelated and I was intrigued by the story craft used to bring them together. I also found the underlying messages in the story to be powerful. We saw messages of strength, of knowing your own worth, of grief, and love woven into the adventures Lachlan, Laila, and the supporting cast took. Add in a couple of scene stealers and we have another winning stand alone tale.
April 1, 2022
This series is now, officially, my all time favourite Rosalind James series. In fact, I would have to crown it favourite romance series of all time. I love the characters so much that I just want to go back and reread every book as soon as I finish a new one.
Laila and Lachlan are not exactly a match made in heaven at first glance, but as their story develops you realize that they are absolutely made for each other. The "rescue" at the New Years Eve party kicks off a story that delivered on all my expectations.
As per usual the dialogue is brilliant and there is humour and feels, always features of Ms James' books. Add in a cast of new, returning (and canine) supporting characters and you have romance gold.
I also have to add that Ms James kicks butt when it comes to research. Characters' occupations and back stories are well-researched and therefore feel completely authentic.
Can't wait for the next one. Keeping my fingers crossed for the identity of the female lead character ;)
Laila and Lachlan are not exactly a match made in heaven at first glance, but as their story develops you realize that they are absolutely made for each other. The "rescue" at the New Years Eve party kicks off a story that delivered on all my expectations.
As per usual the dialogue is brilliant and there is humour and feels, always features of Ms James' books. Add in a cast of new, returning (and canine) supporting characters and you have romance gold.
I also have to add that Ms James kicks butt when it comes to research. Characters' occupations and back stories are well-researched and therefore feel completely authentic.
Can't wait for the next one. Keeping my fingers crossed for the identity of the female lead character ;)
April 3, 2022
Healing hearts, romance and....family 💗💗💗
Talk about a fascinating journey our two main characters take to find their true hearts feelings eh? This is not the typical romance, and trust me it's so much better for it. There are oodles of family and then some...complicated family issues, tragic past events that cause a few minor bumps in the road. In the middle of all this chaos, are two amazing people who met by chance and are instantly drawn like moths to flame. Watch as this epic story unfolds...take the journey of a lifetime and see what treasure has been discovered in this relationship. P.S. Keep an eye out for the young twin daughters of our female main character as they have huge hearts and they're a hoot 😆. Oh and if you see a missing orange plushy monkey please return him ASAP 😉. If you can't tell already I loved this book! It will have you feeling all the feels. There's heart, humor, tragedy, strength, romance, family, surprises and so much much within these wonderful pages. Go on....you know you want to take a peek. Just treat yourself. Enjoy!
Talk about a fascinating journey our two main characters take to find their true hearts feelings eh? This is not the typical romance, and trust me it's so much better for it. There are oodles of family and then some...complicated family issues, tragic past events that cause a few minor bumps in the road. In the middle of all this chaos, are two amazing people who met by chance and are instantly drawn like moths to flame. Watch as this epic story unfolds...take the journey of a lifetime and see what treasure has been discovered in this relationship. P.S. Keep an eye out for the young twin daughters of our female main character as they have huge hearts and they're a hoot 😆. Oh and if you see a missing orange plushy monkey please return him ASAP 😉. If you can't tell already I loved this book! It will have you feeling all the feels. There's heart, humor, tragedy, strength, romance, family, surprises and so much much within these wonderful pages. Go on....you know you want to take a peek. Just treat yourself. Enjoy!
April 4, 2022
Definitely Not Fools Gold
Laila and Lachlan, I don’t even know where to begin with them. There are so many things that Laila tackles and overcomes head on. Her upbringing and the love story between her parents is beautiful. Her first marriage and everything that came with it, how she grows, matures and overcomes that painful past is both beautiful and painful to see. Lachlan also has a backstory that explains so much of how he reacts and has chosen to live his life. Laila is probably the only person in the world who could understand and accept his career and drive. Every secondary character adds to the story as well.
Rosalind James has the ability to make the unbelievable, believable. There’s no other way to put it. It is so difficult to think of the situations these characters find themselves in but the human way they deal with it is both so funny and yet real. I’m tiptoeing around this because I don’t want to give away any spoilers but the writing is masterful. You definitely want to read it and fall in love with it as well.
Laila and Lachlan, I don’t even know where to begin with them. There are so many things that Laila tackles and overcomes head on. Her upbringing and the love story between her parents is beautiful. Her first marriage and everything that came with it, how she grows, matures and overcomes that painful past is both beautiful and painful to see. Lachlan also has a backstory that explains so much of how he reacts and has chosen to live his life. Laila is probably the only person in the world who could understand and accept his career and drive. Every secondary character adds to the story as well.
Rosalind James has the ability to make the unbelievable, believable. There’s no other way to put it. It is so difficult to think of the situations these characters find themselves in but the human way they deal with it is both so funny and yet real. I’m tiptoeing around this because I don’t want to give away any spoilers but the writing is masterful. You definitely want to read it and fall in love with it as well.
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