Above: Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands (Photo by Russell James)

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Photographer Russell James has unveiled a new book that offers a unique glimpse into Sir Richard Branson’s private hideaway, Necker Island, in the British Virgin Islands.

The 150-photograph, oversize book is called, fittingly, “A Virgin Island,” and features largely unseen shots of the island interspersed with stunning shots of models.

The book offers what James calls a “highly personal look at a little piece of heaven.”

Branson purchased the island in the late 1970s. It is now rentable for vacation getaways and hosts the Necker Island Cup tennis tournament each year.

Necker Island, located north of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands chain, has a total of 74 acres of land.

The award-winning James is a native of Australia.