Phantom Lover by A.J. Llewellyn is a homoerotic contemporary romantic fantasy story.

Bobby is a hula dancer, and his dream is finally coming true- to meet the man of his dreams Kimo Wilder, sexiest man in the world. Bobby has had a crush on him for years, and his hula dance team is his chance to dance with Kimo who is a hula master and a spiritual leader. The only snag in Bobby’s dream is that Kimo is married. Watching Kimo perform the ancient ritual dances is both erotic and captivating for Bobby because he knew that Kimo had devoted his life in studying and teaching the god Pele’s life. Things become difficult when Kimo finds Bobby with his friend/lover at lunch. He decides to fly the troupe to an isolated area, so they can rehearse without distractions. Bobby and Kimo ended up rooming together, and as Bobby learns more about Kimo, he falls deeper in love with him. Bobby sees his chance and makes his play for Kimo, and even though he is turned down he knows that he will get his chance. Will Bobby get to fulfill his dreams? What about Kimo’s wife and Bobby’s ex-Johnny? Will they have a chance to be together or will life pass them by?

A.J. Llewellyn has created a fascinating story that blends modern social issues with ancient Hawaiian history. I loved how Kimo lives in the modern world but has many very spiritual aspects to his personality. The reader isn’t sure for a while if he really sees and hears things beyond the normal realm until Bobby himself acknowledges it. Bobby is sure of who and what he is and is willing to give his feelings for Kimo a try even though his chances aren’t good. Kimo appears to be very strong, but underneath he has the same problems as everyone else. Come watch Bobby and Kimo as they fight to overcome not only the outside forces, but themselves to find a love that could change their lives forever.

Reviewed by: Teresa