"Malika" By M.J. Lynley A devoted father must choose between the woman he loves and his children. Romantic drama in the mold of "Bridges of Madison County" or "Kramer vs. Kramer". Synopsis The story is set in Peru in 1985, a time when the social and economic fabric of the country was deteriorating rapidly against the backdrop of escalating terrorist activity. MALIKA is the story of a deep, all-consuming love, in turns heart-warming and heart wrenching. The two principal characters are hemmed in by circumstances, society, and duty. The book dwells on their moral ambiguity. They are flawed (even aware of the fact), but cannot help themselves. Despite the omens, they press on, becoming increasingly committed - and increasingly careless - until eventually their world collapses. The central dilemma hinges on whether Alex will stay with his family, or go with Malika and thereby sacrifice his children. ************************************** It is early 1985, and the Peruvian economy is crumbling fast as the country approaches a change in government in July. Simultaneously, security is rapidly deteriorating as the guerilla movement, Sendero Luminoso, heightens its campaign in Lima itself. Evidence is all around, as power cuts increase, and shootings and bombings become every day events. Alex Fraser is a calm, competent manager working for an American multinational in Lima. He is a devoted family man, who adores his children. However, his already shaky marriage comes under yet more stress in this hostile environment. Not unreasonably, his wife, Erika, yearns for a peaceful and stable environment for her and her children, and is gradually becoming ever more estranged from her husband. As the government change gets closer, Alex makes the fateful decision to employ a legal assistant to help him through the chaos - Malika. She is a bright, cheerful Peruvian law graduate who feels trapped by the inevitability of her life - for all its size, Lima society swims in a very small pond. Gradually, and almost imperceptibly, their working relationship grows into a deeper rapport. Despite their own better judgment, this develops into a love that neither wants to recognize until, finally, the protagonists find themselves losing control of events. Alex and Malika are forced to face the greatest moral dilemma of their lives. He has to choose between love and duty, between love and his children, between Malika and his children, between infidelity and honor. She has to choose between an easy, uncomplicated life and a married man with children; between integrity and scandal. For both, there is a high price to pay for happiness.