Island Bois by A. J. Llewellyn is the next book in the Phantom Lover series.

Lovemore is finally fulfilling his wish; he is on his way to Hawaii to meet his on-line lover, Makaio. Though they have never met, they have exchanged pictures and have had very hot telephone chats. On the airplane, Lovemore meets a very nice and handsome man, Byron, who is the quintessential Hawaiian man. Unfortunately, they both already have significant others. After they say their goodbyes, Lovemore waits for hours, but Makaio never shows up, leaving Lovemore wondering if their relationship was nothing more than a passing fancy. Lovemore calls his sister, Chinatsu, a taro card reader, who pulls an eight of sword, the card that tells says that his goal in unobtainable. Lovemore decides that he will have fun seeing this beautiful land in spite of the complications in his life. Lovemore books a room at a hotel and who does he run into except Byron. Lovemore has lunch with Byron and his business associate, who for some reason recognizes the picture he has of Makaio,but can’t remember where he has seen him. Is Makaio the man who Lovemore thinks he, or was he tricked? Is there a chance Lovemore and Bryon’s feelings could progress to something more lasting?

Mr. Llewellyn has continued his Phantom Lover series with this incredible story. It is awesome how as each new character is added to the original story the plot line enriches. Lovemore is looking for love like everyone else, except he is willing to put everything on the line in his look for the perfect mate. Makaio at first glance sounds perfect for Lovemore, but he may not be everything he claims he is. Byron is there for Lovemore, but is there something in his life that Lovemore doesn’t know about? I enjoy how Mr. Llewellyn creates a unique scenario before he adds the original characters Lopaka and Kimo to spice up the story, and including Hawaiian history adds almost a mystical feeling to the story. I will be waiting for the next addition to the Phantom Lover series.


Reviewed by: Teresa