Book Cover

Out of Office

Author: A.H. Cunningham

Genre: Romance

Romance Subgenre: Holiday Romance

Topics: Grief, Opposites Attract, Self‑Discovery, Tropical Setting, Vacation Romance, Work‑Life Balance

Release Date: April 23, 2024

Summary

Summary Image

In Out of Office, overachiever Genevieve Raymond finally takes the break she desperately needs—a two‑week escape to sun‑drenched Panama. Instead of exotic beaches alone, she finds Adrián Nicolás, her charismatic hotel driver, who’s devoted to his family’s humble hostel and determined to live life on his own terms. Their instant chemistry ignites a sizzling holiday romance, but as their passion grows under tropical skies, so do their fears: can a fleeting affair survive back home, amid deadlines, career ambition and cross‑continental distance?

This deeply heartfelt romance explores work‑life balance, grief, and the tension between career and connection. It’s a steamy, soulful escape that’ll leave readers wondering what happens after the vacation ends—without giving anything away.

Characters

Genevieve Raymond

Out of Office - Genevieve Raymond

Genevieve (“Gen”) is a driven Black woman in her late 20s working her way up the hotel‑management ladder. The story follows her journey from ambitious workaholic to someone learning to embrace spontaneity and love.

Adrián Nicolás

Adrián Nicolás

Adrián is a warm-hearted Latino man in his early 30s who drives Gen around Panama. Grounded by family values and a laid-back attitude, he challenges Gen to rethink her priorities and teaches her the beauty of slowing down.

Age Rating

Recommended for readers 18+. Contains mature themes of grief, emotional growth, and sensual romance appropriate for adults.

Banned

There are no records of Out of Office being banned anywhere. Its themes of romance, grief, and career balance have not drawn censorship or challenges.

Who is this book for?

If you love romance with emotional depth, luscious settings, and grown-up tension, this is for you.

Recommended for fans of:

  • Travel-infused love stories
  • Opposites‑attract workplace dynamics
  • Emotionally mature romance

If you enjoyed these books, you’ll love Out of Office by A.H. Cunningham:

  • The Dating Playbook by Farrah Rochon
  • Frenemy Fix-Up by Yahrah St. John
  • Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen

Sweetest Surprise Bake and Book Giveaway

Indulge in a cozy surprise each month with a handpicked book, beautifully wrapped, and a homemade sweet treat inspired by the stories we love. Subscribe to our newsletter to enter for a chance to win every month!

Diverse Elements

Diversity is central to this story:

  • Black Protagonist: The main POV character is a Black woman navigating career and identity.
  • Latino Male Lead: Adrián is a Latino character whose cultural background enriches the setting.
  • Grief and Mental Health: Adrián’s backstory includes processing family loss, sensitively portrayed.

These elements weave inclusive representation into both character depth and cultural setting.

What do readers think?

  • “Steamy tropical escape that feels heartfelt and real.”
  • “Love the chemistry and the emotional resonance.”
  • “Perfect balance of career-driven plot and romantic heat.”

Sweet Pairing

Sweet Pairing Image

Pair this book with a store‑bought butter pecan cake slice. To tie it to the story, warm it slightly and top it with a drizzle of rum‑spiked caramel sauce—echoing the tropical, sensual feel of Panama and the sweet‑spicy chemistry between Gen and Adrián. The buttery pecan crunch matches the richness of their emotional journey, and the hint of rum playfully nods to their vacation romance under sunset skies.

Explore More Sweet Pairings

Ready to explore more sweet pairings for this book and others? Discover new combinations with our Sweets and Stories Matchmaker. This tool helps you find the perfect treats to complement your favorite stories.

About the Author

About the Author Image

A.H. Cunningham is a Black American author celebrated for writing emotionally rich, sensual romance centered on multicultural characters. She blends heartfelt storytelling with steamy heat, often exploring themes of grief, family, and self-discovery.

An introvert by nature, Cunningham enjoys dancing to Panamanian music and snacking at odd hours between writing sessions. She’s become known for spotlighting Black and Latino protagonists in stories that resonate with diverse readers.