Starred review from December 1, 2021
Brielle Bayo is an energetic 25-year-old Black American civics teacher in New York City. She is proud to be the daughter of successful doctor Marie Bayo, who never remarried after the early death of her husband. One phone call changes Brielle's world, however, when she discovers that her father was actually a prince of a small West African island and that she is next in line to the throne. In this Christian retelling of The Princess Diaries, Brielle travels to the fiercely independent kingdom of Oloro Il�, an enchanting island ruled by a council of tribal elders wary of a woman taking the helm. A marriage of convenience may be the only way to avoid losing the family dynasty, and Brielle must search her heart and soul to discover what kind of ruler she is called to be. VERDICT Shiloh ("Maple Run" series) delivers a fun, contemporary romance delightfully full of favorite romantic tropes that also conveys serious messages of faith and destiny. It is refreshing to see dynamic Black characters in the genre, and readers will be eager for this modern-day fairy tale. Hand to those looking for clean romance, including fans of Melissa Tagg and Denise Hunter.--Christine Barth, Scott Cty. Lib. Syst., IA
Copyright 2021 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
February 1, 2022
Being asked to govern a country she's never even visited, meet a family she never knew existed, and marry a man she has never met are way outside New York City middle-school teacher Bri Bayo's wheelhouse. But Bri's newly discovered royal grandfather is terminally ill, precipitating the revelation of her secret past and throwing Bri headfirst into the small West African island nation of Ọlọrọ Il� and its society, traditions, and politics. Amid threats to her lineage's legitimacy and a revolving door of misogynistic suitors, Bri must decide if she is to take her place on the throne and discover who she truly is, or has been all along. In Shiloh's latest Christian romance, her Black characters grapple with uncertainty and the unknown and find guidance and peace through faith. An emphasis on prayer in daily life and decision-making underscores engaging dialogue about legacy through birthright versus choice. Bri is a refreshingly independent protagonist who has the opportunity to create change in a culture still steeped in traditional gender roles that keep women from positions of power and influence.
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