Kerri Jackson is a freelance reporter visiting the Amazon to put together a story about eco-tourism. Yet, when she meets Angel Cordova, she finds the potential for her article to turn into much more than she had anticipated. Whereas eco-tourism is supposed to aid the environment and help educate people, poor industry regulations mean just the opposite is happening. The Amazon is being damaged by tourism, and those who are out to make a quick buck. Angel is one man who is fighting for the Amazon, standing up to those who would see her damaged by living for the here and now. When Kerri challenges Angel to show her the real Amazon, she never foresaw the beauty that would lie before her, or the connection she would feel – to the forest or to Angel. But she and this gruff jungle man come from two different worlds, so nothing can come of it or her immediate love of the rainforest – can it?

The Black River by Philippa Grey-Gerou is unlike any novella I have read. What makes this novella so unique is the location in which the story is set. With the current debates about global warming, it would have been impossible not to realise how important the Amazon Rainforest is to global climate stability. That scientists predict its disappearance within a century is horrendous, for the rainforest is truly one of earth's greatest splendours. In The Black River, Philippa Grey-Garou has demonstrated an understanding of the rainforest's importance, whilst not overloading the story with all the debates or arguments which could lose the reader. Even those who are not into environmentalism will find their concern roused by this tale. The characters are brought to life with fairly good character development, as is the rainforest itself. The chemistry between the characters is well detailed, as are sexual interludes. The Black River is a fabulous read, mixing gorgeous rainforest, climate concerns, a great portrayal of a different culture, and a healthy dose of sexual attraction to provide the reader with a well rounded story teeming with contemporary realism.


Reviewed by: Elizabeth