AT LAST - Lisa Riley
Genesis Press/Love Spectrum
April 2003
SYNOPSIS: Caroline is a talented, successful African-American artist in Chicago. She is on her way to an interview when she bumps into Brian, a man who takes her breath away. Can Caroline let go of her misgivings about Brian long enough to let him help her and possibly save her life?
INTERRACIAL CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE: (3+) Debra Ross
REVIEW: While rushing to a job interview, Caroline Singleton accidentally bumps into Brian Keenen. The attraction is instant, mutual, and strong. The two are so lost in each others eyes that they almost kiss in the crowded lobby. A distracting noise breaks the spell and forces Caroline to blurt out “This is insane…I don’t even know you...Plus, you’re White!”, and therein lies the main conflict of this story. AT LAST is an interracial love story that illustrates the dilemmas and fears people from different ethnic backgrounds can face while trying to build a relationship.
Caroline is a beautiful, ambitious artist. She is determined to make a name for herself without the help of her wealthy family. Landing the position of art director at a marketing firm is a positive step for her career. Brian is the chief technology officer and co-owner of the marketing firm Caroline was just hired by. It seems these two are mired by roadblocks since there is a no fraternizing policy in the office.
Although Caroline is attracted to Brian, she is determined not to act on it. Brian however, is just as determined to move full steam ahead. Due to their working situation the two are forced to settle for talking on the phone. This reprieve gives them the opportunity to really get to know one another.
Once they decide to have a relationship, Caroline is the one who has problems with their differences. She meets each situation with questions, fear and doubt. Her lack of trust in their relationship is reoccurring throughout the book. Brian is straightforward and honest about his love for Caroline, and he doesn’t let any of the negativity they encounter keep them from being together. At one point in the book Caroline says, “You take too many risks. And liberties.” Brian answers, “And you don’t take enough”. That exchange pretty much describes the hero’s and heroine’s personalities. Throughout the story, it is Brian’s determination that keeps them together.
The villains in this story are Brian’s ex-girlfriend and an underworld crime figure obsessed with Caroline. The antics of these two, although predictable, add a bit of suspense and drama to the story.
Ms. Riley puts most of the components of a good romance in AT LAST – a likable hero and heroine, the magic of love at first sight, believable conflict, and a satisfying ending. The only thing missing is the added spark between the hero and heroine that would make their love extraordinary and memorable. It will be exciting to watch her talent grow in future works
AT LAST is a nice first offering from Ms. Riley.
debra@romanceincolor.com (18th April 2003)