Book 1 of the Otago Waters series: A New Zealand friends to lovers romance. Shal Hoffner’s back in Dunedin after eight years of self-imposed exile. Setting up a new fashion boutique, and juggling bridesmaid duties for her best friend’s wedding, she’s determined to forget her ripped-up past, soulless love-life, and the guy who broke her heart. She should’ve known it wouldn’t be that simple. Assuming the proximity of Cameron Dante (builder, guitarist, surf-buddy, and ex-flatmate) the least of her worries? Big mistake. Huge. Because there’s more to the past than Shal knows, on a collision course with right now, and if she can’t stick to friends-with-benefits there’s a chance she could snap. Just like before. ‘No promises, no commitment, and no exclusive rights.’ Shal’s mantra is fast losing traction, and it’s all Cam’s fault. He’s not the shy surfer-down-the-hall he once was, and he’s out to prove something, no matter the cost. He’s been in love with Shal forever, so what’s he got to lose? His newfound roots, his music career, his very heart and soul... Pretty much everything, actually. Winner of the Daphne Clair de Jong First Kiss Award, and finalist in the Koru Best First Book Award of Excellence, MAKO BAY is the first story in Stephanie Ruth's Otago Waters series, set in the beautiful South Island of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Each book stands alone, but reading them in order provides a deeper experience. Intended for readers who enjoy their slow-burn, feel-good romance on the steamy side, with the promise of a happily ever after. Reader discretion advised, this novel deals with the trauma of a past car accident. Sign on to Stephanie Ruth's newsletter to receive bonus short stories, prologues, epilogues, and cut scenes set in the same world, with the characters you love.