On Wings of Icarus (Paul and Sandy Series, #3)

The couple really strays off the beaten path and dives headlong into their new surroundings, discovering the highlights and lowlights of greater Tokyo in the course of their quest. Covering popular and celebrated sights as well as "secret" locations less reputable but equally as stimulating and educational for the unsuspecting pair. They grow closer to friends and fellow teachers during that time, sharing experiences and struggles as mounting obstacles in the form of interracial relationships, cultural differences, societal racism and general misunderstanding of daily life are handled with difficulty and ease in turn. Gaining inspirational cues from associates, cultural attractions and the general population alike.

Delving into the seedier side of Tokyo life to witness the underbelly of Japanese culture first-hand as much as the upper eschelons of society with both fascination and inflamed senses for various reasons. Transititioning between disparate worlds effortlessly and gracefully to learn all they can about the people and culture they've selected as home. From hostess bars to criminal haunts to high-powered and glass-towered sections frequented by the upper class, Sandy and Paul embrace and (if all goes well) rise to it all.

They also run into a couple on the street, not much older than themselves, who offer them an opportunity to catapult their careers working with the next generation of top university graduates. Initially the interview process seems strict but intriguing as it involves an international organization training future executives, corporate heads and government brass. Paul and Sandy must undergo extensive training as well as thorough security clearances in order to qualify for these prestigious positions. Leading them into a hidden world they have no idea about until it becomes their own to witness and interact with personally. Something they are wary of at first.

They also become more invested in budding friendships with associates and colleagues alike, foreigner and Japanese. Enmeshing in others' lives as friends and acquaintances become more involved in theirs, boosting and supporting all mutually in the midst of recurrent struggles coupled inevitably with reasons to celebrate ever-changing lives that seem to improve steadily over time.

Being abroad quickly becomes the time of their lives when they recognize how much life and living was missed back home and the world broadens their awareness from the moment they step off the plane. Japan feels more like home than any other place they're ever lived and all the activities they engage in augment this inspired journey for the ages!