Honey: My Story of Love, Loss and Victory

If you enjoyed rugby player Ruby Tui’s biography you are guaranteed to enjoy rugby football player Honey Hireme-Smiler’s story. From the first page you can hear Honey’s voice, experience her family life, her conflicts and challenges, her acting out - and feel her sporting injuries. And eventually, with a sigh of relief, you will celebrate her sports goals and achievements.

Honey’s is a rollercoaster life - the reader rides those highs and lows including her sporting career. Initially approached to write her story, Honey reacted with “Hell no, people will freak out if they know the real me”. Yet it is a story worth telling. The language is real, raw, accessible and appealing. Her story is uplifting.

Honey’s diverse roles in sport (rugby league, sevens, union) to TV commentator, hospice kaiāwhina and more, demonstrate a strong skill set and adaptability. These and other qualities offer inspiration for all, especially aspiring female sports players.

Honey discusses how challenging it has been for female players financially, but that hasn’t stopped Honey and other top players advocating to ensure that players today experience improved financial conditions and opportunities. For example, Honey currently presides on the Adastra Foundation Board supporting young people to pursue their dreams.

Honey is a must read for female sports players yet equally will appeal to a wider audience.