This fusion of romance and erotic fiction chronicles the relationship between two soulmates who are destined to be apart—at least in this lifetime.

When Kevin, a commercial developer, first fatefully met Katherine, a young contract lawyer, in an elevator, he fell hopelessly in love with the “caramel-colored girl.” Katherine—who Kevin came to nickname “Rin”—was equally besotted by the handsome “white boy.” But the situation wasn’t right: Rin was about to be engaged, and both Rin and Kevin came from racist families who (they assumed) wouldn’t be receptive to their loved ones being in an interracial relationship.

Even though both knew their relationship—filled with incendiary sexual encounters and gloriously romantic moments—was morally wrong, they continued their covert affair for decades. Both eventually married other people, had children, and raised families—all while maintaining their secret relationship.

Now, in their 50s, Rin wants to meet Kevin one last time in Lanai for a 12-day vacation. After the vacation, she has decided to finally end their relationship—an attempt to atone for their sins in the eyes of God.

The obvious selling point here is the steamy sex and deep connection between the two, but also noteworthy is the larger dynamic between the main characters: Both are embracing their sexuality well into their 50s, both struggling with the guilt of cheating on their spouses and potentially destroying their families. Kevin’s jealousy is explosive and immature; Rin’s failure to fully love her husband has essentially wasted decades of his life. These flaws, however, make them dimensional and authentic.

The theme of redemption and finding salvation through God is only superficially explored and rings a little hollow, especially considering the lack of focus on those whose lives could be devastated because of their cheating. Additionally, the dialogue can be stilted at times.

Still, with its layered characters utterly devoted to each other, this story about eternal love in an ephemeral world offers many rewards.

Also available in hardcover and ebook.