Good book. One of the great things about it was its unusual setting. There aren't that many romances that take place in Antarctica. From the opening pages, I was caught up in the author's vivid descriptions of life on an Antarctica science station. It started with a description of the difficult trip through the Drake Passage, which caused me to look up some YouTube videos of ships going through it. I'd say the author nailed it, making Jordan's experience very realistic. Likewise, the description of Jordan's first under-ice dive was amazing, sending me back to YouTube once again. The dangers that lurked were not minimized, and there was a truly frightening description of an encounter with a leopard seal that clearly illustrated one of those dangers. All of these served to enhance Jordan and Zeke's story.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Jordan and Zeke. They met on the ship that took them to Antarctica. There are sparks between them from the moment they met, but both have reasons to avoid a relationship. Jordan grew up traveling the world with her doctor parents but longs for a settled life where she can put down roots. She feels the attraction to Zeke the moment she sees him but is determined to stick to her plan. The attraction flares hotter when he comes to her rescue in a scene that showcases her stubbornness and independence, though she eventually admits she needs his help. Zeke is also drawn to Jordan, but he is even more resistant to relationships. After tragically losing the grandparents who raised him, he blames himself and refuses to open himself up to caring for anyone again.

The science station is small, so Jordan and Zeke encounter each other often. They start by agreeing to be friends. They see each other frequently, and their connection deepens. The diving scene is fantastic as Zeke introduces Jordan to the underwater beauty. It's there than Zeke begins to realize that Jordan is a real danger to his heart. When Zeke goes along on a medical run, Jordan appreciates his support and help. Their attraction gets another boost as they witness the Southern Lights together in a sweet and romantic scene. But it's when Jordan observes Zeke's reaction to a news story about a hurricane, that the passion between them explodes. Though both insisted that what they had was a fling only, both soon realized that their feelings for each other had changed. But when something occurs that brings all of Zeke's fears back to the surface, he pushes Jordan away. It takes a near tragedy, and a lecture from his friend, for Zeke to take a hard look at himself. I loved the ending as both Zeke and Jordan realize they are ready to take risks if it means being together.

There was also an intriguing bit with Jordan and her best friend, Lia, whose fiancé has disappeared. A surprise discovery by Jordan looks like a lead-in to the next book in the series. ( )