"As a genre-defying novel, Ruapehu presents different aspects to different readers. Some could read it as a romantic suspense novel, while others would recognize it as an environmental thriller. Using both Ken's and Maya’s perspectives, Reiss created an unforgettable love story. He vividly portrayed their suppressed emotions and anguish, making us yearn for their union. I loved Reiss’s depictions of the scenic beauty of New Zealand and the warm welcome the islanders offered. The thorough representations of the Maori customs highlighted their close connections with nature. I loved how the inhabitants personified Ruapehu and considered her an indispensable part of their everyday life. They revered her greatness and feared her volatile temperament, yet loved and protected her with all their might. Reading this book made me realize how we humans are mere playthings in front of the enormous power of Mother Earth, entirely at her mercy. I loved how folkloric accounts perfectly complemented the geological tidbits concerning a volcanic eruption and its aftermath. The palpable suspense kept me glued to the pages. I recommend this book to anyone who loves an adventure story with a romantic undertone." (READER'S FAVORITE BOOK REVIEW)

Volcanos were revered as emotional gods to the native Maori... and this one has a reason to be upset.

Ruapehu is a fast-moving melding of culture, science, romance and adventure for all ages.

A community of a few thousand surrounds Ruapehu, one of the most active volcanos in New Zealand, catering to the mountain’s ski fields and local economy. Ken Ryan’s visit to his aunt’s home at the foothills of Ruapehu is interrupted by an earthquake atop a viaduct where he meets Maya Richardson, an attractive American photojournalist on assignment to document people living near volcanos. As a romance begins to build between them, she suddenly goes missing. A Maori friend, Brodie Savennu and the family Weimaraner help in the search as the volcano begins to stir and they find evidence of foul play. Science, culture and native myths come to life in this exciting story that emphasizes the value of all life atop a thin crust around a sphere of liquid metal that is our Planet Earth.