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Love and Wanderlust #5
The Rival in South Africa
First crush. First kiss. First nemesis.
As kids, Alex Boyd and I were best friends. Until my crush sparked a kiss and our friendship went up in flames. Years of flip-flopping between avoidance and antagonizing turned into... well, us.
Now, anything I can do Alex can do better. Raise money for charity? Run a marathon? Sail a regatta? Alex is there and besting me.
I’m determined to keep him out of my blossoming new photography career. But thanks to our meddling mothers, Alex winds up on a safari in South Africa with me.
Same trip. Same tent. Same bed.
Things are about to get wild.
The fifth in the Love and Wanderlust series, The Rival in South Africa is a forced proximity romance between childhood crushes who ignite into something deeper. This stand-alone contemporary romance is perfect for everyone who wants their wanderlust to continue into the happily-ever-after.
This book was originally published as a novella in the Hate Me Like You Mean It anthology. It has been expanded to a full-length novel.
As kids, Alex Boyd and I were best friends. Until my crush sparked a kiss and our friendship went up in flames. Years of flip-flopping between avoidance and antagonizing turned into... well, us.
Now, anything I can do Alex can do better. Raise money for charity? Run a marathon? Sail a regatta? Alex is there and besting me.
I’m determined to keep him out of my blossoming new photography career. But thanks to our meddling mothers, Alex winds up on a safari in South Africa with me.
Same trip. Same tent. Same bed.
Things are about to get wild.
The fifth in the Love and Wanderlust series, The Rival in South Africa is a forced proximity romance between childhood crushes who ignite into something deeper. This stand-alone contemporary romance is perfect for everyone who wants their wanderlust to continue into the happily-ever-after.
This book was originally published as a novella in the Hate Me Like You Mean It anthology. It has been expanded to a full-length novel.
156 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2023
11 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Liz Alden
31 books232 followersMy Direct Store: https://lizalden.myshopify.com/
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About Liz
I spent ten years traveling the world on a sailboat with my husband. He is not a secret rockstar, nor a grumpy farmer, nor a coworker I accidentally saw naked. I only see him naked intentionally.
Many of my books are based on my travels all over the world – from the Caribbean to Polynesia to Europe. I know exactly how big the world is—having sailed around it—and exactly how small it is, having bumped in to friends worldwide. I’ve been a dishwasher, an engineer, a CEO, and occasionally I get paid to write or sail.
Now I’m in my small town era, both in fiction and real life. I live in Western Massachusetts with a big backyard that would be perfect for a goat if only SOMEONE would let me have one. I like my men to be sweethearts, the bedroom door wide open (with a splash of something new!) and the women to be independent and mature.
You can read free short stories in all her series at https://www.lizalden.com/
Connect with Liz:
Facebook > https://facebook.com/lizaldenwriter
Twitter > https://twitter.com/lizaldenwriter
Instagram > https://instagram.com/lizaldenwriter
Pinterest > https://www.pinterest.com/lizaldenwri...
Winter Wanderlust Series
Nutcracker with Benefits: https://geni.us/nutcrackerwithbenefits
Frosty Proximity: https://geni.us/frostyproximity
Ghost of Ex-mas Past: https://geni.us/ghostofexmaspast
Run, Run, Roommates: https://geni.us/runrunroommates
FREE for Subscribers:
About Liz
I spent ten years traveling the world on a sailboat with my husband. He is not a secret rockstar, nor a grumpy farmer, nor a coworker I accidentally saw naked. I only see him naked intentionally.
Many of my books are based on my travels all over the world – from the Caribbean to Polynesia to Europe. I know exactly how big the world is—having sailed around it—and exactly how small it is, having bumped in to friends worldwide. I’ve been a dishwasher, an engineer, a CEO, and occasionally I get paid to write or sail.
Now I’m in my small town era, both in fiction and real life. I live in Western Massachusetts with a big backyard that would be perfect for a goat if only SOMEONE would let me have one. I like my men to be sweethearts, the bedroom door wide open (with a splash of something new!) and the women to be independent and mature.
You can read free short stories in all her series at https://www.lizalden.com/
Connect with Liz:
Facebook > https://facebook.com/lizaldenwriter
Twitter > https://twitter.com/lizaldenwriter
Instagram > https://instagram.com/lizaldenwriter
Pinterest > https://www.pinterest.com/lizaldenwri...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 29, 2023
Loved reading this novella. It was perfect , it had me laughing after the first few pages. Alex and Nikki were so made to be together . Though people can be stubborn and misunderstand things . It also proves moms are always right. If you love a fun lighthearted romance with a splash of spice this baby is just for you.
January 30, 2025
Quick cute read
It started of well, and it was really sweet. The main conflict was a little childish and annoying to me, but I guess that's because they are in their mid 20s...
I liked it though 😀
It started of well, and it was really sweet. The main conflict was a little childish and annoying to me, but I guess that's because they are in their mid 20s...
I liked it though 😀
January 24, 2023
Nikki and Alex became fast friends when they were 14 but grew apart as they got older and went off to college. They had a misunderstanding that led to years of tension between them. Nikki wants nothing to do with Alex because he is always one upping her in every activity she tries. When they are forced together on a trip to South Africa, will they find that the attraction they felt as teenagers is still there?
Nikki and Alex get to have a little rivalry, a touch of slapstick comedy, a bit of childhood crush, a bit of soul crushing truth, and a bunch of adult getting to know you time. Honestly, don't expect a dirty story because the characters find themselves in a position to have to spend time together and not in an adult way. They have to get to know each other all over again as adults which was nice to read. Once the characters sit down and talk to each other about how they went from friends to rivals, everything just clicks into place. I was so glad that the author chose to have them act like adults and deal with the situation head on. The author even chose to give them an unorthodox happily ever after which suited their story very well. The author does a good job of describing the characters without laboring over nitpicky details. I really like how the fact that Alex was from Malaysia was just worked into the story along with the fact that he has dark hair and eyes. Nikki has a meddling mother that gets worked into the story without becoming a main character and that was a nice addition. Overall, it's just a nice book.
I was a bit concerned for how Alex didn't figure out what Nikki was doing in South Africa. Or the fact that he didn't realize his always competing with her was hurting her. He is epically unaware! His reason for his actions makes perfect sense but wow that he didn't see how upset he made her at every single turn leading up to this story. I get that Nikki has now supposedly found her "thing" that she wants to do forever but I wonder if it will stick since she seems to have spent her adult life flitting from one thing to another. Alex even comments on the fact that nothing ever sticks with Nikki. (Yes, I read the bonus epilogue and I know that they make it at least one year past the events of the book but I still wonder if it's sustainable.)
This is a contemporary second chance romance that takes place primarily in South Africa but there are a couple of other locations. Both of the main characters are 24. I enjoyed the story and will read more from this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nikki and Alex get to have a little rivalry, a touch of slapstick comedy, a bit of childhood crush, a bit of soul crushing truth, and a bunch of adult getting to know you time. Honestly, don't expect a dirty story because the characters find themselves in a position to have to spend time together and not in an adult way. They have to get to know each other all over again as adults which was nice to read. Once the characters sit down and talk to each other about how they went from friends to rivals, everything just clicks into place. I was so glad that the author chose to have them act like adults and deal with the situation head on. The author even chose to give them an unorthodox happily ever after which suited their story very well. The author does a good job of describing the characters without laboring over nitpicky details. I really like how the fact that Alex was from Malaysia was just worked into the story along with the fact that he has dark hair and eyes. Nikki has a meddling mother that gets worked into the story without becoming a main character and that was a nice addition. Overall, it's just a nice book.
I was a bit concerned for how Alex didn't figure out what Nikki was doing in South Africa. Or the fact that he didn't realize his always competing with her was hurting her. He is epically unaware! His reason for his actions makes perfect sense but wow that he didn't see how upset he made her at every single turn leading up to this story. I get that Nikki has now supposedly found her "thing" that she wants to do forever but I wonder if it will stick since she seems to have spent her adult life flitting from one thing to another. Alex even comments on the fact that nothing ever sticks with Nikki. (Yes, I read the bonus epilogue and I know that they make it at least one year past the events of the book but I still wonder if it's sustainable.)
This is a contemporary second chance romance that takes place primarily in South Africa but there are a couple of other locations. Both of the main characters are 24. I enjoyed the story and will read more from this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2024
I was a bit surprised by how much I liked the idea of a story based on some serious rivalry, and the whole only one tent trope. I like that Alex and Nikki are constantly finding themselves pitted against each other. And that their mothers are the deciding factor in forcing the two of them together. Plus, this is partly based in South Africa, a country that I’ve visited and loved. One that I would seriously love to go back to… there’s just something amazing about it.
Although I loved and understood Nikki’s frustration at Alex’s constant infiltration of her life, it was pretty obvious that it was because he liked her. The awkward infatuation just made it all that much more intriguing to finally have the two characters get together. Plus, it meant that, as the reader, it was easy enough to get behind the characters becoming a couple. Sometimes it’s a bit harder if the jerky behaviour is just… being a jerk. At least in my experience.
As someone who has always wanted to do a lot of travel, but never had the chance, I kind of love the whole idea of the Love and Wanderlust series. Which just means that I’ve been meaning to read this for quite a while. I might have dived in right at the end of the series, but that is no hard ship. Plus, it was fun to read about a country that I’ve actually been to. Now I get to read about five other locations that I haven’t actually been to. The fact that this awesome travel is then combined with romance and finding your perfect partner is fantastic. Plus, at the end of the story (like the one other Liz Alden that I’ve written), the travel bugged partner doesn’t have to choose between love and travel. Rather, Nikki is able to pursue her joys and chosen career, and her and Alex are able to make it work.
The steam and love in this is enjoyable, but what I love the most is the idea of an alternative career. Something that is not 9 to 5, and from what I understand, is incredibly difficult to make your mark in. But, the gumption and pride with which Nikki is able to pursue her career is beautiful. It might not be the most realistic, but I don’t read romances for the realism. I read them for the joy of falling in love, and finding your own happily ever after to match your goals in life.
Alden manages to write a beautiful book that doesn’t just involve love and steaminess in a beautiful location. But, it also has two characters acknowledging each others’ flaws and finding a way to work together. There is no requirement for change, just a bit of communication to make each other happy. Which is probably why I love this book so damn much – no drastic change, just a whole lot of happy with a dash of steam.
Although I loved and understood Nikki’s frustration at Alex’s constant infiltration of her life, it was pretty obvious that it was because he liked her. The awkward infatuation just made it all that much more intriguing to finally have the two characters get together. Plus, it meant that, as the reader, it was easy enough to get behind the characters becoming a couple. Sometimes it’s a bit harder if the jerky behaviour is just… being a jerk. At least in my experience.
As someone who has always wanted to do a lot of travel, but never had the chance, I kind of love the whole idea of the Love and Wanderlust series. Which just means that I’ve been meaning to read this for quite a while. I might have dived in right at the end of the series, but that is no hard ship. Plus, it was fun to read about a country that I’ve actually been to. Now I get to read about five other locations that I haven’t actually been to. The fact that this awesome travel is then combined with romance and finding your perfect partner is fantastic. Plus, at the end of the story (like the one other Liz Alden that I’ve written), the travel bugged partner doesn’t have to choose between love and travel. Rather, Nikki is able to pursue her joys and chosen career, and her and Alex are able to make it work.
The steam and love in this is enjoyable, but what I love the most is the idea of an alternative career. Something that is not 9 to 5, and from what I understand, is incredibly difficult to make your mark in. But, the gumption and pride with which Nikki is able to pursue her career is beautiful. It might not be the most realistic, but I don’t read romances for the realism. I read them for the joy of falling in love, and finding your own happily ever after to match your goals in life.
Alden manages to write a beautiful book that doesn’t just involve love and steaminess in a beautiful location. But, it also has two characters acknowledging each others’ flaws and finding a way to work together. There is no requirement for change, just a bit of communication to make each other happy. Which is probably why I love this book so damn much – no drastic change, just a whole lot of happy with a dash of steam.
January 29, 2023
Thank you to Liz Alden for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I have been a huge fan of Liz Alden’s Love and Wanderlust series! Most of them are set on sailboats, which is a dream life for me, so I was instantly drawn to these books. The fact that each book has been set in different locations around the world has made them so much more enjoyable too! This book, the final in the series, is set in South Africa – a destination I’d love to visit one day – and even though it’s not set on a sailboat, I might have been more excited for this one since the main character is a photographer – which is a passion on mine!
I was a little worried when I saw that this one would be a novella. I don’t typically enjoy novellas because I usually feel they’re missing something or not fully fleshed out. I thought Liz did a wonderful job with this story, even though it’s shorter. And while I was wishing for more, it didn’t need more to tell the complete story!
I absolutely loved her take on the enemies to lovers, only one bed (tent) tropes in The Rival in South Africa. When Nikki gets an assignment to photograph a new resort, Alex comes tagging along for the trip. Alex, her former rival. Her first crush. Her first kiss. Things have been different since then, and they haven’t really been friends. So when they arrive at the hotel to find they’re sharing one bed in a tent, things get tense.
I really enjoyed their story and I loved following along with Nikki’s photography journey! This novella was in a recent anthology, so if you read it there, this is the same basic story with minor changes. I also really enjoyed the bonus epilogue you can read by joining Liz’s newsletter. The bonus epilogue shows Nikki and Alex one year later.
This is a story – and series – you don’t want to miss! Especially if you love to travel!
I have been a huge fan of Liz Alden’s Love and Wanderlust series! Most of them are set on sailboats, which is a dream life for me, so I was instantly drawn to these books. The fact that each book has been set in different locations around the world has made them so much more enjoyable too! This book, the final in the series, is set in South Africa – a destination I’d love to visit one day – and even though it’s not set on a sailboat, I might have been more excited for this one since the main character is a photographer – which is a passion on mine!
I was a little worried when I saw that this one would be a novella. I don’t typically enjoy novellas because I usually feel they’re missing something or not fully fleshed out. I thought Liz did a wonderful job with this story, even though it’s shorter. And while I was wishing for more, it didn’t need more to tell the complete story!
I absolutely loved her take on the enemies to lovers, only one bed (tent) tropes in The Rival in South Africa. When Nikki gets an assignment to photograph a new resort, Alex comes tagging along for the trip. Alex, her former rival. Her first crush. Her first kiss. Things have been different since then, and they haven’t really been friends. So when they arrive at the hotel to find they’re sharing one bed in a tent, things get tense.
I really enjoyed their story and I loved following along with Nikki’s photography journey! This novella was in a recent anthology, so if you read it there, this is the same basic story with minor changes. I also really enjoyed the bonus epilogue you can read by joining Liz’s newsletter. The bonus epilogue shows Nikki and Alex one year later.
This is a story – and series – you don’t want to miss! Especially if you love to travel!
January 23, 2023
I really like Liz Alden's writing style. Her characters are interesting, easy to connect with and her plots are well thought out. Her stories paint a picture for the reader.
This book was fun to read. Alex and Nikki have been friends since childhood but at some point, perhaps after that kiss, they turned into nemeses. Why it is every time Nikki tries something new, Alex is right there doing the same? It frustrates her and it has gotten to the point that she wants nothing to do with him.
Alex - to know him is to understand and like him. I saw his character growing and changing as the story progressed and I really learned to like him.
Both have interfering mothers who drive them a bit crazy. Will their mothers pushing them together on a safari be their breaking point or melting point? When these 2 finally have their moment of clarity, the story turns into a sweet love story.
There are lots of smiles and laughs with this book. I loved reading about their safari adventure. The writing made me feel like I was right there in the vehicle experiencing it along with them.
The epilogue was sweet and wrapped up things. Even though they are both busy people, love finds a way to make it work for them.
Great job, Liz! I loved this book.
This book was fun to read. Alex and Nikki have been friends since childhood but at some point, perhaps after that kiss, they turned into nemeses. Why it is every time Nikki tries something new, Alex is right there doing the same? It frustrates her and it has gotten to the point that she wants nothing to do with him.
Alex - to know him is to understand and like him. I saw his character growing and changing as the story progressed and I really learned to like him.
Both have interfering mothers who drive them a bit crazy. Will their mothers pushing them together on a safari be their breaking point or melting point? When these 2 finally have their moment of clarity, the story turns into a sweet love story.
There are lots of smiles and laughs with this book. I loved reading about their safari adventure. The writing made me feel like I was right there in the vehicle experiencing it along with them.
The epilogue was sweet and wrapped up things. Even though they are both busy people, love finds a way to make it work for them.
Great job, Liz! I loved this book.
January 31, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This review is for The Rival In South Africa by Liz Alden.
Nikki is a passionate person when it comes to her hobbies/career however she isn't competitive and that's what drives her the most nuts about Alex, a family friend. He always swoops in and has to beat her in everything she does.
When Nikki takes up photography as a career and gets an opportunity to shoot at a resort in South Africa she is thrilled until her mother suggests she invites Alex. After consideration Nikki agrees to let Alex join her in hope that they can be friends once again until she realizes that they will they will only have one bed...
I thoroughly enjoyed this series by Liz Alden and I highly recommend it. We're all somewhat restricted with travel when it comes to this pandemic so this series definitely let's you feel like you're experiencing these locations for yourself. My favorite part is that the author actually went to all these locations for herself so she is able to give vivid details making it feel more real.
The relationship between Alex and Nikki is steamy, and the tension gets almost unbearable. So worth the read!
Nikki is a passionate person when it comes to her hobbies/career however she isn't competitive and that's what drives her the most nuts about Alex, a family friend. He always swoops in and has to beat her in everything she does.
When Nikki takes up photography as a career and gets an opportunity to shoot at a resort in South Africa she is thrilled until her mother suggests she invites Alex. After consideration Nikki agrees to let Alex join her in hope that they can be friends once again until she realizes that they will they will only have one bed...
I thoroughly enjoyed this series by Liz Alden and I highly recommend it. We're all somewhat restricted with travel when it comes to this pandemic so this series definitely let's you feel like you're experiencing these locations for yourself. My favorite part is that the author actually went to all these locations for herself so she is able to give vivid details making it feel more real.
The relationship between Alex and Nikki is steamy, and the tension gets almost unbearable. So worth the read!
January 22, 2023
Two people, have been friends since their senior school days. Both unknowingly had a crush on each other. It's not until a few years later whilst both on Safari they get to talk honestly about their feelings.
Such a well written book, I never give spoilers and won't here either. The South African scenes are so well described that you can imagine that you are really there. I had no idea it got so cold at night, naively I thought it would stay hot too as our male lead had thought.
A wonderful feeling when these two talk about and analyse how they have felt about each other and acted towards each other. Also about how to make a relationship work when life is crazy busy when building your career.
A short book that you can read in a day so a lot of story in a short time. Never a bad thing in my opinion.
There is some sex in this book, it is well written so maybe not one to let your mother read!
Beautifully written, two great main protagonists and amusing mum's who seem to hover in the background. I really enjoyed this novella.
Such a well written book, I never give spoilers and won't here either. The South African scenes are so well described that you can imagine that you are really there. I had no idea it got so cold at night, naively I thought it would stay hot too as our male lead had thought.
A wonderful feeling when these two talk about and analyse how they have felt about each other and acted towards each other. Also about how to make a relationship work when life is crazy busy when building your career.
A short book that you can read in a day so a lot of story in a short time. Never a bad thing in my opinion.
There is some sex in this book, it is well written so maybe not one to let your mother read!
Beautifully written, two great main protagonists and amusing mum's who seem to hover in the background. I really enjoyed this novella.
January 22, 2023
Another enjoyable read by Liz Alden.It is an enemies to lovers romantic comedy.
Nikki and Alex were best friends then they drifted apart.Now Alex likes to compete with Nikki no matter what she ends up doing and she hates him for it.
When she finally finds something which is perfect for her and she ends up going to South Africa she is in her element.
Spanner in the works she ends up taking Alex with her and tries to hide what she is doing.They end up sharing a tent with one bed.The chemistry between them is undeniable when Alex admits he likes Nikki and she realises the feeling is mutual they give into the chemistry.
When they come back they try to make it work,but it's not as easy.
They do eventually get to their happily ever after.
A feel good romance with great characters and the way every aspect of the trip was described in detail was amazing.
Love this series and hopefully there is more to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nikki and Alex were best friends then they drifted apart.Now Alex likes to compete with Nikki no matter what she ends up doing and she hates him for it.
When she finally finds something which is perfect for her and she ends up going to South Africa she is in her element.
Spanner in the works she ends up taking Alex with her and tries to hide what she is doing.They end up sharing a tent with one bed.The chemistry between them is undeniable when Alex admits he likes Nikki and she realises the feeling is mutual they give into the chemistry.
When they come back they try to make it work,but it's not as easy.
They do eventually get to their happily ever after.
A feel good romance with great characters and the way every aspect of the trip was described in detail was amazing.
Love this series and hopefully there is more to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 25, 2023
Nikki and Alex peaked my interest when they appeared briefly in The Second Chance in the Mediterranean so I was thrilled to read their novella! This story is set nearly a year later and while Alex has settled into life as a workaholic in his mother's company, Nikki has found a new passion in photography. Her path to professional success has not been linear but she is building something entirely her own and is going all in with it. I will not spoil the story but I will say that the backstory between these two was brilliant as was their forced proximity which did involve some meddling mothers.
The story was told entirely fro Nikki's POV which made the reader see Alex through her eyes and all of their previous interactions were colored by her lens. This was brilliant because as Nikki started to let herself open up to Alex, for me anyway, he became a perfect barely restrained tortured hero.
Although the story was so short, it created a great conflict and resolution and had lots of time for banter and some very steamy moments.
The story was told entirely fro Nikki's POV which made the reader see Alex through her eyes and all of their previous interactions were colored by her lens. This was brilliant because as Nikki started to let herself open up to Alex, for me anyway, he became a perfect barely restrained tortured hero.
Although the story was so short, it created a great conflict and resolution and had lots of time for banter and some very steamy moments.
January 25, 2023
The story
Nikki and Alex were friends at school and once shared a kiss that she found he mocked afterwards. Since then, they have turned into rivals, anything she is doing, he can do better. And of course, their moms are good friends. When Nikki gets a job taking photos of a new luxury camp in the Kruger Park, her mom offers the plus one spot to Alex. Yes, even knowing that there is ONE BED!
My thoughts
I love Liz Alden’s stories that share places she has travelled to in real life, and I especially love this novella which features a trip to the Kruger Park which is right on my doorstep. The story is about as authentic as it could be if you were to do the trip Nikki and Alex are doing. There’s luxury glamping, sunset cocktails in the bush, freezing cold game drives in open safari vehicles, and local food bobotie and malva pudding. Of course, once Nikki and Alex admit their feelings for each other that “one bed” comes in handy and the blankets keeping them warm on game drives keep the spicy scenes hidden from the other guests! This sweet and fun read is a great addition to the other gorgeous stories in this series 🦁🦒🦏
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author
My rating 4.5/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️💫
Nikki and Alex were friends at school and once shared a kiss that she found he mocked afterwards. Since then, they have turned into rivals, anything she is doing, he can do better. And of course, their moms are good friends. When Nikki gets a job taking photos of a new luxury camp in the Kruger Park, her mom offers the plus one spot to Alex. Yes, even knowing that there is ONE BED!
My thoughts
I love Liz Alden’s stories that share places she has travelled to in real life, and I especially love this novella which features a trip to the Kruger Park which is right on my doorstep. The story is about as authentic as it could be if you were to do the trip Nikki and Alex are doing. There’s luxury glamping, sunset cocktails in the bush, freezing cold game drives in open safari vehicles, and local food bobotie and malva pudding. Of course, once Nikki and Alex admit their feelings for each other that “one bed” comes in handy and the blankets keeping them warm on game drives keep the spicy scenes hidden from the other guests! This sweet and fun read is a great addition to the other gorgeous stories in this series 🦁🦒🦏
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author
My rating 4.5/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️💫
January 26, 2023
Another stunning tale full of steam and sizzling emotions.
After the first introduction to Alex and Nikki in The Second Chance in the Mediterranean, I was thrilled to find out that their story would continue and expand as a short novella.
The premise was wholly intriguing and while I did have reservations at the beginning, throughout the book those reservations were squashed to the point of nonexistence.
Alex and Nikki's story progresses so fast but so well that it feels all too natural and right, leaving more time to enjoy the roiling emotions and revelations rather than worry about any potentially out of character happenings.
I fully adored this super steamy novella and cannot wait for more of Liz Alden a writing.
CW: Strong Sexual Content, Cursing, Very Mild Blood, Mild Alcohol Use
After the first introduction to Alex and Nikki in The Second Chance in the Mediterranean, I was thrilled to find out that their story would continue and expand as a short novella.
The premise was wholly intriguing and while I did have reservations at the beginning, throughout the book those reservations were squashed to the point of nonexistence.
Alex and Nikki's story progresses so fast but so well that it feels all too natural and right, leaving more time to enjoy the roiling emotions and revelations rather than worry about any potentially out of character happenings.
I fully adored this super steamy novella and cannot wait for more of Liz Alden a writing.
CW: Strong Sexual Content, Cursing, Very Mild Blood, Mild Alcohol Use
January 29, 2023
I really loved this one! I've loved the entirety of Alden's Love and Wanderlust series, so I expected to love this one too. This entire series is so much fun because of all the destinations. Like, who doesn't want to read a romantic romp through South Africa?? The setting was so vibrant I could visualize it, and it added an entirely new dimension to the romance.
My favorite thing about the romance was the emphasis put on communication. It was SO nice to have a couple that actually talked through their issues without a major third-act breakup. SO nice. I loved Alex and Nikki together, and I loved that they both explored the reasons for their hesitance.
If you've ever considered starting this series, do it!! They're really quick reads that are worth every minute. So much fun!
My favorite thing about the romance was the emphasis put on communication. It was SO nice to have a couple that actually talked through their issues without a major third-act breakup. SO nice. I loved Alex and Nikki together, and I loved that they both explored the reasons for their hesitance.
If you've ever considered starting this series, do it!! They're really quick reads that are worth every minute. So much fun!
January 30, 2023
Nikki and Alex were childhood friends, but as they grew older, the competition between them grew as well. Much to Nikki’s dismay, Alex always seemed to do everything better. When she breaks up with her boyfriend but finds her passion with photography, she is excited to grow her business by taking pictures for the soft opening of a new lodge in South Africa. When their mothers get Alex to go as well, Nikki is weary of what will happen. Can they figure out a way to get along, or maybe even be together once all their cards are on the table?
This is a short book but a fun story with relatable characters. I have not read the other books in this series - it worked fine as a stand alone.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This is a short book but a fun story with relatable characters. I have not read the other books in this series - it worked fine as a stand alone.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 19, 2025
I bought this book specifically because the setting was in South Africa and I wanted to see whether the author did my country justice. 😉 I was impressed. The descriptions of the wildlife and Kruger National Park was done well and I liked the mention of culture tribes.
Would have like to get an idea of who the characters are before getting an info dump on their history. In fact, I felt the first chapter wasn’t even needed and just gave me a lot of info dump.
It is hard to combine character arcs, and plot lines into a novella and Liz did a good job of giving enough for the reader to be satisfied.
Would have like to get an idea of who the characters are before getting an info dump on their history. In fact, I felt the first chapter wasn’t even needed and just gave me a lot of info dump.
It is hard to combine character arcs, and plot lines into a novella and Liz did a good job of giving enough for the reader to be satisfied.
January 22, 2023
I just came back from my own trip to South Africa a few weeks ago so when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it. It’s a quick and fun story around Nikki and Alex, they went from friends to rivals to lovers. It had one of my favorite tropes; the one bed trope. Even though the book is shorter than most books I read, I didn’t feel rushed into the story and the storyline progressed in a good pace.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick, but fun read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick, but fun read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I am not usually a huge fan of novellas because usually I feel that they don’t give you enough details to truly fall in love with the characters and have a fully fleshed out story. I can honestly say that I was impressed by this one perhaps mostly because I know and already love Liz Alden’s work and had background about the characters. The way she wove her story really made it feel like I wasn’t missing anything and as if it were one of her longer novels.
January 26, 2023
This was an enemies to lovers and close proximity trope.
It was read in Nikki's POV, I usually prefer when it is Dual POV.
This was an easy and fun book to read.
Liz did her research well as I thought I was in South Africa whilst reading the book. So well described.
Nikki and Alex were best friends then turned to enemies. Alex always competing against her in everything and ruining things for her. Then they are off to this retreat and truth starts to unravel.
Great book to read to relax and enjoy yourself.
It was read in Nikki's POV, I usually prefer when it is Dual POV.
This was an easy and fun book to read.
Liz did her research well as I thought I was in South Africa whilst reading the book. So well described.
Nikki and Alex were best friends then turned to enemies. Alex always competing against her in everything and ruining things for her. Then they are off to this retreat and truth starts to unravel.
Great book to read to relax and enjoy yourself.
July 12, 2024
- 3.5 stars rounded to 4
- 47% he’s definitely always liked her and now he’s hurt she asked to spend the day apart even though they haven’t been fighting. Also omg I thought last chapter when she went back into the tent she was going to hear him masturbating in the shower but NO!! What a letdown haha. And there has been ZERO accidental snuggling in their one bed!
- 61% oh nooo I hate when the FMC accidentally says shit out loud lol.
- 97% whaaat. In the last chapter he explains he just wanted to spend time with her all along and then they barely even reconcile? She just forgives him and then tell him to take her on a date next week while he’s leaving her flat? I was hoping for more of a reconciliation!!! Why did he leave???
- Okay. The epilogue was okay.
❌ feels
- 47% he’s definitely always liked her and now he’s hurt she asked to spend the day apart even though they haven’t been fighting. Also omg I thought last chapter when she went back into the tent she was going to hear him masturbating in the shower but NO!! What a letdown haha. And there has been ZERO accidental snuggling in their one bed!
- 61% oh nooo I hate when the FMC accidentally says shit out loud lol.
- 97% whaaat. In the last chapter he explains he just wanted to spend time with her all along and then they barely even reconcile? She just forgives him and then tell him to take her on a date next week while he’s leaving her flat? I was hoping for more of a reconciliation!!! Why did he leave???
- Okay. The epilogue was okay.
❌ feels
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2023
This was a cute enemies to lovers romance. It was my first time reading a book by the author and I liked her style. It was written from Nikki’s perspective throughout and I did find myself longing to have Alex’s point of view at times but that’s just my personal preference. The story had a good pace and I found it entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2023
loved it !! love this series !! love Alex and Nikki... this is their story..a fast paced fun shorter story.. once upon a time, they were best friends... it all changed when she kissed him..now enemies.. and he's everywhere... besting her... oh !!! and their mom's... now, on safari... really !!! so funny !! so good !!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2023
Another fun story from Liz Alden
Very fun story. I've read her other books and enjoyed them very much. In this sequel Nikki and Alex finally discover what their Mothers knew all along, they're perfect for each other. If you're just starting here, it's fine, you'll want to go back and read the earlier books but it won't spoil the surprise it always seemed like they would figure it out eventually.
Very fun story. I've read her other books and enjoyed them very much. In this sequel Nikki and Alex finally discover what their Mothers knew all along, they're perfect for each other. If you're just starting here, it's fine, you'll want to go back and read the earlier books but it won't spoil the surprise it always seemed like they would figure it out eventually.
February 2, 2023
Nikki and Alex were great friends at 14 but then they became competitive. He always seemed to be better and they parted ways when then. Years later after having their competition they go to Africa together as they’re mothers get involved. She’s a photographer but will he interfere? They find the feeling as teenagers is still there but will it crash and burn again? I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this of book.
January 22, 2023
4.5 Stars .. I enjoyed this shorter story! Alex and Nikki were friends back in school and became "enemies". Reading as they reconnected at a later point in their lives was engaging and the addition of a South African background made for a nice story! I was given an early copy of this read in return for my independent thoughts and feelings about the tale.
January 24, 2023
This was a fun story to read. Childhood friends to rivals to lovers with meddling moms thrown in for a good kick. Of course there was “the misunderstanding” , a basic requirement for every rom-com type story but I love how the author didn’t drag it on and rather let her characters tackle it like adults.
January 25, 2023
I love the way the author writes how Nikki and Alex spark off each other to cause arguments. Alex always has to go one better than Nikki like when he runs a marathon quicker and raises three times as much sponsorship as her. They end up getting thrown together on a glamping safari by meddling parents. The past is revisited and the close proximity bring back old flames.
February 6, 2023
Not having read any other books in this series, I don't know if these characters appear in any of them, but this book worked great as a standalone. An adorable lil romance, I loved Nikki & Alex, as well as Nikki's career as a travel photographer. There wasn't anything groundbreaking about the book, but it was thoroughly enjoyable.
March 3, 2024
This was so cute. The enemy turned lovers gets me every time. The ending made me hurt for both of them when Nikki told Alex her truth. I’m glad everything was back in harmony at the end. This novella was a good pallet cleanser between romance and fantasy. Super easy to read and cheesy but I loved it
January 24, 2023
What a fun adventure this was!!!! Well written with amazing characters and settings that I could actually visualize as if I had been there myself!!! Five stars all the way!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 25, 2023
Nikki and Alex has been competing all their lives. Or this is how Nikki feel about their relationship. But when spending a fantastic week in an African safari they start to build a new relationship. Will this time their kiss last till forever? Sweet, funny.
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