The Player in New Zealand

Nice blend of interesting storylines with new culture I had to look up and wonderfully learn about. Unfortunately, Unnecessary blasphemy didn’t add to story.. but nice character development as well

4.5 Glowing Stars

I definitely have a case of wanderlust myself after reading this charming romance. I’m ready to head to beautiful and magical New Zealand!
The author makes the country and people come alive, it played a big part in my enjoyment of the story.
This story starts with Claire beginning a year abroad in New Zealand working at a bar owned by the very hot, but grumpy ex-rugby star, Tane (along with his co-owner and sister who’s a very fun and warm character.)
It starts off a with the two bickering and they have those fiery enemies vibes happening that I adore!
I was just waiting for it them to erupt into sexy passion.
The story was a bit slow to get going, but once it did I appreciated the pace and character development and fell in love with the characters and their charm.
Both characters are at points in their lives that are a bit painful and transitional. I love how this plays out between them and the relationship they develop and how they encourage and support each other.
I really love these characters so much. I love their relationship, their banter and their unique personalities. They are a lot of fun, I was very entertained.
The story has serious topics that are handled with a subtle stroke. It didn’t lessen the seriousness or make light of those things, it kept the story lighter in a good way.
I loved the humor and the meddling family members. I laughed a lot because of them.
I love the adventures that Tane takes Claire in as she explores his home country. Those were some of my favorite scenes and some of the steamiest scenes, too.
The bits of Tane’s Māori culture and traditions that are included were a great touch, very beautiful and emotional moments.
I appreciated that both for the feel of the story and the inclusivity of the native people of New Zealand.
I love the authors writing style, the characters are amazing and the story was really fun and sexy. It’s slower burn and not as spicy as a lot of romance I read. I still enjoyed it so much.
The only issue I have is the ending felt a bit rushed and I would have liked more of the two as a real couple.
This is a new to me author that I plan on reading more from.

Claire is in New Zealand for a year. She is working in a bar in Wellington. She's not looking for love. Tane owns the bar in New Zealand where Claire works. He's got a drinking problem and self-esteem issues. They don't start out on the best footing but slowly realize that sometimes you find love with someone who is perfect for you even if the way you met wasn't perfect.

Claire left Boston to spend a year in New Zealand to get away from a man that is stalking her. Because of her history of being stalked, she's skittish about trusting when she receives compliments or attention from men. Claire learns self-reliance and confidence while she's working at Tane's bar. By the end of the story, she is such a strong and independent woman that she trusts that Tane really loves her. Tane starts the story with a drinking problem and a ton of self-pity. He spends the story getting to know Claire and coming to terms with his drinking problem. The two of them take their time to get to know each other and help each other with their issues. Their journey takes a year but it's very satisfying and heartwarming.

This book includes stalking and alcoholism. This is a contemporary romance set in New Zealand. The couple takes the time to get to know each other before they hook up. I will read more books from this series because it is so much fun and made me happy.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.