"Stellar historical 'proper romance'. Based on Todd's real-life Hawaiian ancestors...Delivers a sweet and entrancing story about the power of communication to bring together people from vastly different worlds." -Booklist, starred review

"A fictionalized version of the romance between a Hawaiian princess and an English naval officer from Cook's last fateful voyage, one of the first hapa haole (half-white, half-Hawaiian) marriages on record. Todd's first adult novel is based on her fourth great-grandparents and is a delightful amalgamation of fact and fiction as well as a beautifully rendered peek into Hawaiian society before any large Western influence. Through Maile's first-person narrative and John's occasional diary entries, Todd explains ancient Hawaiian customs, beliefs, and wisdom and creates a clever, multifaceted heroine. The story is captivating. Astute and luminous, like its heroine." -Kirkus

"Sweet. A dear story of love's ability to cross the figurative and literal ocean that all too easily separates people." -Publishers Weekly

“While a romance at its heart, the narrative is embellished with rich cultural details and environmental elements. My favorite scenes were with Maile as she becomes immersed in the sights and sounds of the ocean. The budding relationship is developed with grace and gentleness. I loved Todd’s skillful illustration of the beautiful differences between Maile’s and John’s cultures. Inspired by her family history, Todd’s heartfelt connection to this story adds a special vibrancy to each page. Recommended for fans of daring female leads, sumptuous settings, and slow-burn romances.” —Historical Novel Society