Several issues are explored simultaneously in this story: transition to adulthood, multicultural acceptance, friendship, drug use, and teen-age sexuality. Through her relationships and experiences with Didi, Roady, David, and Victor, Talley develops a better understanding of others and herself and strengthens her values. Talley, a runner who is petite, lean, and lithe, is proud of her accomplishments. She was considered to be a good student and daughter until she became involved with David. When she started dating him, running, schoolwork, and time with her father came second.

In writing A White Romance, Hamilton included three white characters.

Didi Adair, Talley's best friend, is a tall, beautiful blonde who also loves running. She is "school smart," but not "street smart." Didi is obsessively in love with Roady Dean Lewis, a "metal rocker," whose family pays him to live away from home. Roady cares only about...