Yes, yes, *another* volume in the Escape to New Zealand series. And the last, it would appear, as Ms. James has started publishing another series that I have no interest in. Regardless, this is very much like its predecessors - All Black rugby player falls in love with ex pat.
In this case, the story is about Nate, new skipper for the ABs (you'll remember Drew from the first book was the previous skipper, and he retires in this volume). His serious focus is tested by the beautiful and interesting Canadian, Allison. Her interest in extreme sports, and Nate, keeps his mind occupied on something other than the game at hand. They aren't the only romance in this one, though. Ally's roommate (and Kate from the first book's sister) Kristen and another AB teammate, Liam, also have a blooming romance in this one. Honestly, they have a relationship I liked more and I wish these were two separate books instead of meshed into one.
Ally and Nate's primary issue is his lack of ability to commit. His focus on his career takes precedence over his feelings for her, and I'm glad when she gets sick of it and moves on (though of course he learns his lesson and makes it up to her, etc). Liam and Kristen are more interesting. She's a model gorgeous woman with a recent divorce who is incredibly gunshy about men. This makes sense, since she's used to only being wanted for her looks. Liam is a recovering alcoholic who has gone down a long, hard road to become the man he is now. The way he warms her to him, and that they grow to love one another is lovely. I wish I could have spent more time watching that unfold instead of Ally and Nate. And Liam's proposal, and general courtship, is so beautiful.
Another great addition to a series I'm sorry to see the end of. Hopefully she'll write more of them someday. I love being transported to New Zealand and living with these characters.
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