Queen of Trades

by Dee Osah

An audacious offer. The perfect setup…or the answer to his prayers?

Eden Kane, a passionate immigration lawyer, is tired of her billionaire father trying to marry her off to the highest bidder. When her dad gives Eden an ultimatum, a deal to buy her way out of being heir to the family throne, Eden turns to the unflappable Daniel Keshi, a genius day trader and PhD student who’s about to be kicked out of the country.

But Daniel wants nothing to do with Eden, so she makes him an offer he can’t refuse. If Daniel helps Eden gain her long-awaited freedom, she’ll help him beat the system. As long as he can flip her investment in three months.

There’s just one problem. Eden's offer to help Daniel isn’t really about the money. But Eden doesn’t know that. At least not yet.

Queen of Trades is the second novel in Dee Osah’s Improbable Romance Series, a collection of stories about the journey of self-discovery and finding love in the unlikeliest places.

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction

305 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 25, 2024

About the author

Dee Osah is a husband-wife team with a godly passion for weaving their personal experiences into stories anyone can enjoy. They live in Houston with two young daughters, who already love to whip up compelling tales. When not writing, they enjoy analyzing the financial markets, watching K-dramas and Anime, and learning to grow food for their ever-growing family.

Reviews

[Cindy Hardegree · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good story of Eden trying to overcome her father’s control consequently being put into the company of Daniel, someone she’s been obsessed with for years. Together with the help of well meaning friends they learn their worth. Interesting Nigerian wedding traditions, and an introduction to albinism. Totally enjoyed this once I got familiar with all the characters.
I received this arc from Hidden Gems and I am voluntarily submitting my review.

[Daniela · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading the blurb I was really keen on reading this romance novel. But soon I found myself a bit disappointed, because additional to the main romance aspect of the book, I originally I was more interested in learning some facts about immigration law than about the works of the stock market, which belongs to my personal least favorite subjects.

At first the plot seemed to be a bit strange, because Eden Kane, the female MC, an obviously rather intelligent woman, isn’t able to withstand her father’s attempts at blackmail. Ok, there might be a strongly woven spider net of intrigues she has to battle against, but lets be real: The woman is an immigration lawyer, she earns her own money, so why should she give in to the pressure of an alienated relative?

Her father obviously had some severe personality disorders and looking at the way how the psychical abuse of his daughter is described in the novel, he was determined to use her only as a chess figure in his power plays and to rule her life without any respect.

Why was she not able to stand up for herself and cut the strings earlier?

Is this where the old-school belief still manifested in female minds, that women have to be like written in the Old Testament „only being men’s subject“? And adult children have to accept their parents „advice“ to the point where they are not allowed to decide how they want to live their own life?

Well, you can imagine my relief, when Eden started to fight her father’s misguided power games.

The relationship between Eden and Daniel began a bit hesitant, and with a bit of prejudices on both sides. But they realized, that if they might learn to trust each other they could work well together, and that with the additional help of other members from the Christian congregation they also might have a chance to reach their goals.

I received an ARC of this book for free and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily here.

Unfortunately, as you might have noticed already, I didn’t really enjoy reading this novel.

Especially the mood at the beginning of the story contained a lot of doom and the content of the first few chapters felt simply depressing. Everyday situations like the police control Daniel had to suffer through are quite realistic and well written, but also no help in improving the mood.

I know there is a market for a lot of diversity in romance books regarding readers’ tastes, for example like Vampire Romance or Cowboy Romance and even Zombie Romance. That’s ok, but it would always be nice, to learn about the respective orientation ( here Christian Romance) of a book before reading.

The Christian aspects in this novel come over rather strong and for my personal (European) taste it’s all a bit too much and sometimes even sounds a little extra exaggerated. Maybe that impression is caused by cultural differences, maybe not, I can’t really tell, but it definitely added to the perception regarding my personal reading experience.

[Fruzsina Bagin · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Queen of Trades" is a compelling romance novel that goes beyond the classic love story: it explores issues of family, ambition and social differences in a Christian, yet modern and authentic world. The second volume in the "Improbable Romance" series once again reveals a love story that is about passion, the importance of community and faith, while also addressing real social issues.

The novel's protagonist, Eden Zane, is a skilled immigration lawyer trying to break away from her billionaire father's shadow and make it in life on her own. Her personality is at once feminine and determined, intelligent and empathetic, which makes her particularly likeable. For me, it was inspiring to see Eden not only fight for justice, but remain human and genuinely care about those she fights for. Her work on immigration issues provided an important and intriguing backstory to the novel, allowing us to learn even more about the struggles and hopes of immigrants.

Daniel Leshi, the male protagonist, is a charismatic and ambitious businessman who is trying to achieve the American dream while his immigration status keeps him in a state of constant uncertainty. Daniel's story – about how he struggles with racial and socio-economic differences in America as a Nigerian, trying to make his place in a world where he is often underprivileged – was extremely intriguing. His character had depth and sincerity, and I was fascinated by the dynamic that developed between him and Eden.

One of the strongest aspects of the novel is the relationship between Eden and Daniel. Their love doesn't just work on the level of chemistry and emotion, but they also face real challenges. Sexual attraction is present, but the authors portray it with respect and Christian values, a rare and refreshing vision in Christian romance literature. What I really like about Dee Osah's books is that they are not afraid to speak out: Christian people desire physicality too, but they make conscious choices about who with and when.

In addition to the evolving relationship between Eden and Daniel, the novel also features an exciting subplot in the financial world. Eden makes a daring proposal to Daniel and his business partner Judah to double her money in a short period of time through a substantial investment. This thread not only added excitement and suspense to the story, but also showed another dimension of risk-taking and the world of business.

The supporting characters are again wonderfully developed and further enrich the story. The appearance of familiar characters from the first episode was a pleasant surprise and added further depth to the world of the series. The second book in the "Improbable Romance" series can be read as a standalone, but for those already familiar with the first volume "My Sugar in Sugar Land", the reunion with the old characters will be a special treat.

Overall, "Queen of Trades" is a captivating and emotionally rich romance novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. With a strong female protagonist, a fascinating immigration legal background and an authentic portrayal of cultural differences, I would definitely recommend it to those who like intelligent, meaningful romance novels. Once again, Dee Osah has created a story in which faith and romance go hand in hand, and which reminds us that love knows no boundaries.

I received a free copy of "Queen of Trades" by Dee Osah via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alison · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 30%.

Eden Kane is an immigration lawyer, the daughter of a very wealthy and powerful man who is trying to manoeuvre her into getting back together with her ex because he comes from the right family etc, no matter that he cheated on her repeatedly. Her ex is also trying to get back with her for his own reasons. I gather that Eden and her ex were in a physical relationship but Eden found god and has decided to save herself for marriage, this is conveyed in a mildly slut-shaming way (if one can do that mildly). Her father wants Eden to stop working as an immigration lawyer and join his firm, they make a ridiculous bargain where she has to repay him for her entire education (several million dollars)within in three months or bow to his wishes. He has also pulled lots of strings so she can't access her trust fund or borrow the money. Eden is described as exotic with men fetishising about sleeping with her, I think she has albinism but I could have misunderstood.

Daniel Keshi is Nigerian, a genius day trader, PhD student and he's writing a book, although he is looking for funding which makes me think if he's so good at trading why does he need funding? He is also having visa issues and could be facing deportation. Again, if he is making so much money day trading why can't he afford to pay a top-notch immigration lawyer to help him?

Eden and Daniel both attend the same fellowship hall (which again makes no sense, why wouldn't a billionaire's daughter attend services close to where she lives?). He is drawn to her looks but feels she could be trouble so has actively avoided her for over a year, even though they have several friends in common. Apparently, all their friends agree that the two of them love each other - now I ask you how on earth can you be in love with someone you never speak to/with? It makes no sense unless they just fell in love with each other's appearance.

So apparently (because it hasn't happened by the point I gave up), Eden will offer to make all of Daniel's visa problems go away if he can increase her investment in time to beat her dad at his own game. However, Daniel's strategy didn't seem to be very revolutionary from what I understood.

I read that the authors (a husband and wife team) like to bring part of their own lives into each story and I feel that maybe they did a bit too much? There is a LOT of christian messaging in the book, multiple references to praying to god etc which I found off-putting, I would not have requested it if I had known this.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.

Available on Kindle Unlimited.

[Hassena · Rating 3 out of 5]

Queen of Trades" is an engaging romance novel that explores the complexities of family, ambition, and love across cultural boundaries. The story centers around Eden Zane, a successful immigration lawyer, and Daniel Leshi, a gifted trader struggling with his immigration status. Eden, the daughter of a wealthy and controlling billionaire, seeks independence from her father's influence and desires to forge her own path. Daniel, a talented writer and trader, is trying to build a new life in America while facing the challenges of navigating the immigration system.

The novel intertwines Eden and Daniel's personal journeys with the world of finance, highlighting the high stakes and emotional rollercoaster of trading. Eden's determination to break free from her father's control leads her to make a bold proposal to Daniel and his business partner, Judah, involving a significant investment and a seemingly impossible challenge to double her money in a short period. Their connection develops amidst the backdrop of Eden's legal cases, showcasing the human impact of immigration law and the complexities of cultural identity. Eden's dedication to helping her clients achieve their dreams of citizenship and overcome difficult situations underscores her compassionate nature and strong sense of justice.

As Eden and Daniel's paths continue to intersect, their initial professional relationship blossoms into an undeniable attraction, challenging their preconceived notions and forcing them to confront their deepest desires.

The novel's supporting characters add depth to the story, offering different perspectives on love, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness.

The author weaves elements of faith and cultural heritage into the narrative, creating a rich and nuanced tapestry that celebrates diversity and explores the challenges and triumphs of navigating different worlds. Eden's deep faith and commitment to her beliefs play a significant role in shaping her actions and decisions, while Daniel's Nigerian background informs his worldview and adds a unique perspective to their relationship.

Overall, Queen of Trades is a good read about ambition, second chances, and the enduring power of love to bridge cultural divides.

ARC for unbiased review

[E.M. Swift-Hook · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eden Kane really is the ultimate poor little rich girl. The albino daughter of a billionaire father who treats people abominably - her included - she has tried to make herself a life with all the benefits of wealth and none of the drawbacks, working as an immigration lawyer with her true identity kept under wraps. Through becoming a Christian she gathers a delightful 'found family' and tries to make believe she is not her father's daughter. Until her father starts putting the pressure on her to marry the man he wants, but even then Eden can't bring herself to renounce all that luscious wealth and tell him a simple 'no'. Instead, she makes a bet with him that she can make a stack of money and if she does he will let her do what she wants.
Daniel Keshi is at the same Christian church as Eden and is drawn to her from the first. His study visa is going to expire soon and he needs to find a way to get that precious green card. Fortunately, he is a superb trader on the stockmarket and takes on the task of making the money Eden needs to win the bet with her father. Things progress from there along the rocky road of romance.
Admission here, I am not a devourer of romance novels, but I do enjoy one now and again, as they always have a positive uplift at the end. This is a well-written Christian romance which touches onto some quite deep topics along the way, as well as having all the usual romantic interplay. For me, it was badly spoiled by the premise that the daughter of a not-very-nice billionaire would not just do as other children of not-very-nice billionaires have done and simply disown him and live her own life on her own terms. She might have lost billions, but she'd have had a few million left as a comfort blanket! In fact, Eden allows herself to be manipulated by her father throughout the book and that felt distasteful to me, but another reader might be fine with it.
All that said it is certainly an improbable romance and many romance readers will love it for that alone.

[Seth Hobbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

While set in the modern era, the whole issue of a family looking for the most successful arranged marriage for their daughter is explored here. The whole investment deal angle is kind of strange, but the book does a good job of fleshing out some immigration system issues and a little bit of stock market know-how. You get the sense that the authors have certainly dealt with some of these issues in their personal lives, or via others, and that sense of realism is always a nice touch. Many readers seem upset that the book has a lot of Christian themes or values in its pages, and maybe that is a fair criticism, since the blurb doesn't explain that in detail. However, I find it a bit sad that Christianity has become somewhat of a proverbial punching bag in the West in recent years, especially around the writing, academic, and entertainment realms. It is almost popular to denigrate one of the key world religions today, while often praising and exploring other religions and customs. I simply felt that that religious world view was part of the exploration of many African or American citizens, and is naturally woven into the story. However, I understand that may not be what all romance readers are looking for here. Overall, this is a decent romance story with some insights into wealthy families, spirituality, forbidden love, immigration, clashing cultures, etc. Most romance readers and others will find something to like here.

[Nathan Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Queen of Trades by Dee Osah is a blend of romance, self-discovery, and societal themes, diving deep into the lives of Eden Kane and Daniel Keshi.

The chemistry between Eden and Daniel is palpable yet complex. What starts as a pragmatic arrangement—Eden seeking freedom from her father’s control and Daniel needing help with his immigration struggles—gradually unfolds into a meaningful connection that feels both genuine and earned. I was especially drawn to how each character’s background shaped their choices and the believable push and pull dynamic between them.

Osah’s attention to detail, particularly in portraying the world of high-stakes trading and immigration law, adds a layer of realism that pulls you into the story. However, some readers might find the explicitly Christian messaging unexpected; while it plays a significant role, it aligns well with the narrative’s overall tone of hope and redemption.

While I appreciated the book’s exploration of heavy topics like racism, undocumented immigration, and personal loss, there were moments where I felt the story leaned a bit too much on exposition. Some of the more emotional beats could have benefited from being more fleshed out. Nonetheless, the story remains engaging, with characters whose strength and vulnerability resonate long after the final page.

[Ifeanyi Omoike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dee Osah has done it again with what I believe is their best book yet! I've thoroughly enjoyed all three of Dee Osah’s novels, but this one absolutely tops the charts. It defied my expectations in the best way possible and delivered an unforgettable story.

The main characters were a highlight for me. Eden is refreshingly feminine but also assertive and domineering, while Daniel exudes masculinity and brings strength and depth to their relationship. The suspense around Daniel trying to multiply Eden’s money to meet the terms set by her father added an exciting twist. Speaking of her father, he was such a standout character. His complex and strained relationship with Eden made the story incredibly compelling, and seeing how her spiritual journey—seeing God as her Father—helped her heal and reconnect with her earthly father was truly moving.

I also loved the vulnerability between Eden and Daniel. Daniel’s struggle with their racial and economic differences brought a realistic tension to their romance, while Eden’s unique and brave approach to handling those differences was inspiring.

Dee Osah once again delivers on suspense, originality, wit, and romance, crafting a story that is both entertaining and meaningful. I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in their fourth book!

[TheReal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Queen of Trades is a refreshingly original romance with substance and soul. Dee Osah crafts a story that’s not only about love but also personal freedom, identity, and resilience in the face of societal pressures. Eden Kane’s fierce determination to escape her father's grip and Daniel Keshi's struggle for stability as an immigrant create an intense, layered dynamic that makes their journey feel genuine and compelling.

The chemistry between Eden and Daniel is electric yet grounded in real-life stakes—Osah's nuanced handling of high-stakes trading, immigration struggles, and complex family ties brings a tangible authenticity to the narrative. The Christian themes may come as a surprise, but they fit well within the story’s message of hope and perseverance, though some readers might feel they detract from its universality.

While a few of the themes could have been explored with greater depth, the story remains captivating. Eden and Daniel’s journey from reluctant allies to something far deeper is as rewarding as it is heartfelt. A thought-provoking and heartfelt read, Queen of Trades will resonate with anyone who believes that love and personal growth can happen in the most unexpected places.

[Frank Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into 'Outpost General' expecting a typical sci-fi novel, but what I got was so much more. This book is a masterclass in storytelling, with a narrative that's both propulsive and introspective. From the very first page, I was drawn into the intricacies of the subterranean training hospital in Saxtonn, where the stakes are high and the moral dilemmas are even higher. Kelcey Brand, the protagonist, grapples with his ambition to become a doctor while navigating the complex landscape of human emotions and ethical challenges. His struggles to reconcile his aspirations with his humanity resonated deeply with me, making me reflect on my own life choices and values.

What truly sets 'Outpost General' apart is Dr. Tulman's ability to weave together elements of horror, satire, and romance, creating a rich tapestry that keeps readers engaged and on their toes. The characters are multifaceted and relatable, each contributing to the overarching themes of addiction, mortality, and the quest for knowledge. If you're looking for a book that will challenge your assumptions, provoke thought, and leave you feeling profoundly changed, 'Outpost General' is the one. It’s a journey that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the second book in Dee Osah’s Improbable Romance series, readers follow Eden Kane, an immigration lawyer, and Daniel Keshi, a day trader and PhD student who is about to have to leave the United States. With her billionaire father trying to marry her off to some other rich man, Eden eventually strikes a deal with him to finally be free of his interference and not take up the family throne, and Daniel is key to her plan (in exchange for her help in keeping him in the country). However, both Eden and Daniel are keeping secrets from each other that are critical to their two plans succeeding, and they will continue to run into each other through their respective (and overlapping) friend groups. With two very competent and capable protagonists with unique perspectives which alternate throughout the novel, readers will enjoy seeing Eden and Daniel’s professional relationship evolve over the course of this fun new modern romance novel. Set amidst the hustle of New York City, the background provides some excellent contrast to their relationship and personal growth over the course of the novel, which readers will enjoy in Osah’s fun, high stakes, and passionate new modern romance novel.

Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the advance copy.

[Amber Daulton · Rating 2 out of 5]

Eden is an immigration lawyer whose father has given her an ultimatum—pay back the cost of her education, or join his firm and marry the man of his choosing. Daniel is a genius when it comes to day trading, but now, he’s facing deportation and is looking for a way to stay in the country. Eden and Daniel make a deal, and what follows will change the course of their lives forever.
I was really looking forward to this book. The cover is beautiful and hints at a clean/sweet romance, which I was fine with, but instead, I got a Christian/Inspirational romance. Nowhere in the blurb does it state that. Inspirational is the only subgenre of romance I don’t like to read because I can never relate to the characters. All the talk of God, purity, waiting for marriage to have sex, etc, really turned me off. It was just so preachy. What I did like was the immigration and financial/trading parts of the book, as well as the info about albinism and Nigerian culture, but that didn’t make up for the very heavy religious message. There was also more telling than showing, which slowed the pacing.
I'm sure other readers will enjoy it, but unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me.
2 Stars

[Gene Kendall · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Queen of Trades" by Dee Osah is a serviceable combination of standard romance tropes and female self-empowerment. The book centers on the unexpected relationship between rich girl Eden Kane and potential investment prodigy Daniel Keshi. Eden seeks liberation from her domineering father, while Daniel requires assistance navigating the byzantine rules surrounding America's immigration system. Their initial agreement is practical, but as these things go in a romance, the two develop honest feelings for each other.

The religious themes presented in the previous book in this loose series are again present, and may feel excessive for some secular readers, but the conflict between the secular world and religious faith would seem to be a necessary aspect of these stories. Your body tells you to do one thing, God says something else... The book's strongest moments are in the world-building, touching on the issues surrounding the investment world, immigration, albinism, and Nigerian culture. At times, the prose is thick with exposition, and the dialogue can be flat. But overall, it’s a clean romance that gives readers what they came for.

[Eduardo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartfelt romance novel that combines themes of love, family, faith, and personal growth with the intrigue of the business world. The author has created a compelling narrative as the two protagonists, coming from very different backgrounds, form a mutually beneficial business arrangement that soon grows into something deeper. As Eden and Daniel confront their personal struggles, they find meaning and growth in unexpected ways. The narrative showcases the complexities of both romance and the financial world, offering an accurate yet accessible glimpse into trading without being overwhelming. Relevant themes such as immigration, family pressure, and faith—especially Christian faith—are thoughtfully explored, adding depth to the story. Some plot points are predictable, but the mix of romance, business, and meaningful social commentary creates an engaging storyline. Fans of romantic stories and character-driven narratives will appreciate this book.

[Amelia Lawniczak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Queen of Trades by Dee Osah is a compelling blend of romance and personal growth, focusing on the unlikely connection between Eden Kane and Daniel Keshi. Eden’s looking for independence from her overbearing father, while Daniel needs support with immigration issues. Their arrangement starts off practical but gradually deepens into a real, heartfelt bond.

Osah does a great job of making their world feel real, especially with her detailed look into trading and immigration. The Christian themes add a layer of hope and redemption that feels right for the story, though it might surprise some readers. At times, the story leans on telling more than showing, but the characters’ journeys around issues like race, family, and loss still shine through. Overall, it’s an emotional read with characters that stick with you.

[J.R. Gibson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an “impossible romance” story featuring two people from very different socio-economic backgrounds, Eden Kane, a wealthy young lady whose father is planning to marry her off, and Daniel Keshi, a young Nigerian lawyer. It does seem incredulous to me that Eden would be expected to find $2 million dollars from somewhere in the space of three months for the cost of her education as part of the ultimatum her father gave her into marrying someone she has no interest in. And that she can’t access her trust fund or take out a loan either. Wouldn’t that be considered blackmail?

It was interesting to see how the relationship developed as the story progressed, and the challenges that they faced. However, there were several elements in the story I couldn’t get to grips with, which is why I gave this three stars.

[Mikkel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A love story of faith

I couldn't put this book down, it was so good and pulled me in! I was drawn into the world, with the drama, the ups, downs and the love. The characters were really well done and provided an inside view of different worlds colliding and coming together as well as the doubt that comes with it. As the description states it's a story of self development, and love. I didn't know it would be as faith orientated as it is but it plays a huge role in the book. The love between the characters was so sweet and you could really feel their fledgling relationship build. The relationships between everyone were amazingly portrayed and I loved how the female lead created her own family. Both main characters had a past they were actively working to leave behind and it was an amazing example of how we can create our own lives each and every day.

[Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read for sure, I had a few nice evenings dedicated to this book

Several things that made me like it:
- Believable and relatable characters. I was drawn to Eden because she chose to help immigrants when she could just use her father’s money. Daniel won me over when he turned down marriage that could solve his visa problem just because he couldn’t give her that kind of love she deserves.
- Unusual set up for the romance
- Eden’s dad made me enraged a few times, which made me want to follow the plot initially
- It was nice to follow the initial “no way, not her/him” to “yeah, he/she’s the one”.

I didn’t like that the book was a bit too heavy on “telling” instead of “showing”, but still a pleasant read in general.

[Ineye Komonibo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Queen of Trades! Out of all of Dee Osah's books so far, I'd say that Daniel and Eden's story is the most realistic, especially as it relates to the very real struggles many Christians have with purity. They love God, but they also have a really strong romantic and physical chemistry — if you've ever been in that situation, you know it's not the easiest journey. Dee Osah handle that dynamic well without tiptoeing around it, and I found it quite refreshing to hear Christian people talk about sticking to convictions even when we're tempted. I wish more faith-based fiction was honest about that.

I look forward to reading about this pairing more in future books in this series. Maybe a one-off about some of the interesting side characters?

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't enjoy this book very much for a number of reasons, but I am sure many people will enjoy it. I enjoyed learning a bit about Nigerian culture and was rooting for the couple to get together. But I don't enjoy stories as much when the characters fight their attraction to each other or feel like he/she isn't good enough for the other person. Also, I could not relate to either character. I had many questions about the characters' past, some of which were answered much later in the book, but not all. It didn't seem like they talked about their pasts with each other, which I thought they should have. I liked that the characters were Christian, that God had transformed their lives and that they served others. I did like the ending, too.

[Shay · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the synopsis of this and was immediately pulled in, until I actually started reading it. I wanted to like this book so much, I wanted to like it so very much. But it was incredibly slow, and in several areas didn't make much sense honestly. For me this was much more of a 2.5 star read but I gave it the extra nudge into 3 star territory because I liked some of the subjects that were covered in here such as the albinism and Nigerian traditions. Sad to say that I honestly feel like those were the main parts of the book that I actually enjoyed.

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura Koerber · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my cup of tea but this book will definitely hit the spot with the right readers.

Like many romances, the story is a bit over the top--but romances are escapist literature and over the top is what the readers want. This story also has a lot of Christian messaging around sexuality which readers will either like a lot or not like at all. The story explores themes of love across cultural divides, which are well done and interesting. The writing is smooth and the proofreading and editing is thorough.

I think that someone who wants to curl up in one corner of the couch, sip coffee, pat the cat, and take a mental trip to the world of someone else's life will enjoy this story.

[Amanda Krause-Maurer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a clean and Christian romance - both types of romance are the opposite of what I usually read. This book dives into heavy topics like racism, religion, undocumented immigration, and personal loss. For me, personally, it was a bit much on the religion but aside from that, I enjoyed the story of Eden and Daniel and their friends — the characters and their past and present chapters of their lives are very relatable.

I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems and the author, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

All she wants is her freedom from her father trying to marry her off to the highest bidder. She will turn to him for help but life may send them a curveball. Her life may be much more than she expects it to go. A beautiful tale of finding love in a very beautiful way
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it pulled me in, keeping me there until the end

[Amy Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good clean Christian romance book. It's refreshing to read a book like this. The characters have pasts and they aren't perfect. A lot of the Christian romance books I've read have the perfect characters that don't make mistakes and I feel like they give a false sense of reality to people. This book is not like that. This was a good book and I would highly recommend it to anyone that wants a clean romance book.

[Mary Simpson · Rating 4 out of 5]

like book okay it takes a day to read
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gem books and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

This is where I say the author gives enough information.
So, I do not give anything away.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be a good read and had lovely storyline and characters. Worth the read. Recommend

[LaRae · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of love and finding self! Loved the Christian aspect and friends were great! Loved the story!

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I could not put this book down! It was such an interesting story. I loved Daniel and Eden and all of their friends too. The book is also incredibly detailed about trading; I was impressed with the authors’ knowledge and I learned a few things! This is the first book I’d read in the series, but I was able to get the characters and their backstories straight pretty quickly. I loved Mema’s story. America was founded by and has benefited immensely from good-hearted and hardworking immigrants. In addition to undocumented immigration and racism, this book tackles other tough topics like cancer and miscarriage - with hope in God’s guidance and love.

This was almost a five-star read for me. However, I felt there was too much confusion between love and lust, especially at first, with how quickly Daniel and Eden's relationship developed. I also felt that the storyline of Daniel’s immigration was forgotten a bit. Finally, “God works all things for our good” felt like a callous response to a miscarriage, even if it’s true.

Otherwise, I loved this book! I will definitely be looking for more stories from Dee Osah.

Thank you to BookSirens and husband-and-wife author team (how cool is that?!) Dee Osah for the free eARC. I post this review voluntarily with my honest opinions.

Content notes: there is explicitly Christian messaging in the story, but there are also a few uses of God’s name in vain, and some very descriptive passionate kissing. Characters praise waiting for marriage and talk a lot about wanting to have sex. Additionally, readers may wish to know ahead of time that this story mentions a cancer battle and a miscarriage.