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A Labor of Love
Kate Malone has her life mapped out. After graduating with her master's degree, she plans to marry her high-school sweetheart and settle down in the same comfortable town where she's lived her whole life. But when a betrayal shatters her dreams of the future, Kate's father convinces her to volunteer for a few months as a midwife at a rural hospital in Tanzania. Heartbroken and unsure of who she is and what she wants, Kate is braced to wait out the four-month commitment on the other side of the world in misery. Instead, she finds friendship, meaningful work, and a growing attraction to Dr. Andrew-the talented, kind, and impossibly handsome physician she works under. Drawn together by an immediate and undeniable chemistry, Kate and Andrew's flirtation soon develops into something more until Kate's two worlds collide unexpectedly. Suddenly forced to confront race issues and the sacrifices she's made to please others at the expense of her own happiness, Kate must make an impossible choice. Can she finally find the courage to be the star of her own life?
258 pages, Paperback
Published March 16, 2021
1 person is currently reading
2002 people want to read
About the author
Leah Omar
12 books71 followersLeah Omar is an author from Minnesota, and as long as she could remember, has been an avid reader and writer. Her debut novel, A Labor of Love, lived in her mind for years before she put pen to paper. Leah is a lover of all romance novels but set out to create compelling stories that tackle the complexities of relationships.
Leah has a bachelor’s of art in communications and English literature and a master’s degree in business administration. She now calls Minneapolis home, which she shares with her husband and two children. In her free time, Leah enjoys traveling the world and learning about different cultures, reading and writing, and spending time with those she loves best.
As a writer, Leah is devoted to giving her readers contemporary love stories that make us remember that we have more similarities than differences, and that love can conquer all. She loves to interact with readers, so feel free to reach out.
Leah has a bachelor’s of art in communications and English literature and a master’s degree in business administration. She now calls Minneapolis home, which she shares with her husband and two children. In her free time, Leah enjoys traveling the world and learning about different cultures, reading and writing, and spending time with those she loves best.
As a writer, Leah is devoted to giving her readers contemporary love stories that make us remember that we have more similarities than differences, and that love can conquer all. She loves to interact with readers, so feel free to reach out.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 18, 2021
A Labor of Love is an easy read, but there is depth to the characters and I wanted to know how their relationships would play out and what Kate would learn about herself as she used her talents and grew in confidence.
Quick overview: At the encouragement of her dad and with the reluctant agreement of her mom, 24-year-old Kate leaves Minneapolis, MN, for Tanzania, where she will volunteer for a few months as a midwife in a start-up rural hospital. She is finished with university, her heart and emotions are raw, and she is struggling to find direction. She has left behind her high school sweetheart and a called-off wedding, and finds herself face-to-face with an attractive colleague and an opportunity.
This book is the perfect romance to take along to the beach and read while sipping something cool, or to read while curled up on the couch with a warm cup of tea or glass of wine. I picked the book up one afternoon and the characters and story drew me in. I finished it the next day. I truly enjoyed the book; the characters are dimensional, there is a love story - with some heart-tugging twists, and there are some real-life social justice issues that the author touches on in a way that feels real, but doesn't make the story-line too heavy. I closed the book, feeling like I had just watched a great chick-flick - something along the lines of Runaway Bride, You've Got Mail, or Save the Last Dance.
If you are looking for a great (not too steamy) romance novel - A Labor of Love should make it to the top of your list!
Quick overview: At the encouragement of her dad and with the reluctant agreement of her mom, 24-year-old Kate leaves Minneapolis, MN, for Tanzania, where she will volunteer for a few months as a midwife in a start-up rural hospital. She is finished with university, her heart and emotions are raw, and she is struggling to find direction. She has left behind her high school sweetheart and a called-off wedding, and finds herself face-to-face with an attractive colleague and an opportunity.
This book is the perfect romance to take along to the beach and read while sipping something cool, or to read while curled up on the couch with a warm cup of tea or glass of wine. I picked the book up one afternoon and the characters and story drew me in. I finished it the next day. I truly enjoyed the book; the characters are dimensional, there is a love story - with some heart-tugging twists, and there are some real-life social justice issues that the author touches on in a way that feels real, but doesn't make the story-line too heavy. I closed the book, feeling like I had just watched a great chick-flick - something along the lines of Runaway Bride, You've Got Mail, or Save the Last Dance.
If you are looking for a great (not too steamy) romance novel - A Labor of Love should make it to the top of your list!
February 15, 2022
Something a little different from your typical romance novel.
May 10, 2021
A Labor of Love
By – Leah Omar
Format – Paperback
Print Length – 258 Pages
Genre – Fiction
My Ratings – 4.7/5
A Labor of Love by Leah Omar is a tale about Kate Malone, a girl who has determined everything about her future, including marrying her high school sweetheart and settling down in her hometown. However, life was not as easy for her as her hopes had been; all of her illusions were dashed after a betrayal by Peter, the man she had planned to marry. Since he was perplexed between Kate and Jane, he called off their wedding.
Kate needed some room right now, so her father persuaded her to volunteer as a midwife in a rural hospital in Tanzania. There she met Dr. Andrew, a talented, kind, and attractive physician, and began to develop feelings for him; eventually, they formed a strong relationship, but nothing was perfect; Kate's two worlds clashed suddenly, and she was forced to make a difficult decision.
Kate's character has my heart; the way it's built and how we see her character flourish in the plot is incredible, and she becomes the story's soul. In the other hand, I would like to commend the author's style of delivering the plot, which includes even minor specifics and explanations that enrich the reading experience. The language was clear, and the narration was smooth; there were no points where I became confused, and the story moved flawlessly.
The title and book cover are the first things readers see, and I thought they were appropriate for the storyline. The book cover is appealing, and the two characters in rural Tanzania stand out. In this novel, we learn about many facets and global problems that are important to today's environment in a light-hearted way.
Overall, it's a love tale, but unlike others, it has something special about it that elevates it beyond the ordinary. The use of relatable quotations before the start of each chapter was something appealing. The story will send its readers on an emotional roller coaster, making it an entertaining read. It's a joy to see Kate and Dr. Andrews' relationship develop; go get your copies of the book and read this amazing story of ups and downs.
Happy Reading
By – Leah Omar
Format – Paperback
Print Length – 258 Pages
Genre – Fiction
My Ratings – 4.7/5
A Labor of Love by Leah Omar is a tale about Kate Malone, a girl who has determined everything about her future, including marrying her high school sweetheart and settling down in her hometown. However, life was not as easy for her as her hopes had been; all of her illusions were dashed after a betrayal by Peter, the man she had planned to marry. Since he was perplexed between Kate and Jane, he called off their wedding.
Kate needed some room right now, so her father persuaded her to volunteer as a midwife in a rural hospital in Tanzania. There she met Dr. Andrew, a talented, kind, and attractive physician, and began to develop feelings for him; eventually, they formed a strong relationship, but nothing was perfect; Kate's two worlds clashed suddenly, and she was forced to make a difficult decision.
Kate's character has my heart; the way it's built and how we see her character flourish in the plot is incredible, and she becomes the story's soul. In the other hand, I would like to commend the author's style of delivering the plot, which includes even minor specifics and explanations that enrich the reading experience. The language was clear, and the narration was smooth; there were no points where I became confused, and the story moved flawlessly.
The title and book cover are the first things readers see, and I thought they were appropriate for the storyline. The book cover is appealing, and the two characters in rural Tanzania stand out. In this novel, we learn about many facets and global problems that are important to today's environment in a light-hearted way.
Overall, it's a love tale, but unlike others, it has something special about it that elevates it beyond the ordinary. The use of relatable quotations before the start of each chapter was something appealing. The story will send its readers on an emotional roller coaster, making it an entertaining read. It's a joy to see Kate and Dr. Andrews' relationship develop; go get your copies of the book and read this amazing story of ups and downs.
Happy Reading
July 7, 2021
Once I got into this book I couldn't put it down. The main characters often do things that I didn't like, or had an attitude that annoyed me- like real people. I still struggle with first person but that's a personal preference.
May 23, 2021
This book is not your average contemporary romance, but it’s so much more. The MC, Kate is spurred on to make a huge change in her life, by an upsetting event & move halfway around the world to help at a clinic in a small village, specializing in women’s health, with her expertise being midwifery. She learns to challenge herself and struggles to believe in herself. She takes on challenges involving different cultures and ways of life, ethnicity, race and so much more. Through it all, Kate struggles to identify her feelings and who she loves, concerned about others’ opinions.
I would definitely recommend this book! It’s fun, sweet, captivating and holds so much depth. I loved meeting the different people who came into the clinic, bringing in all kinds of emotions. I love that the author is willing to take on so many difficult topics with ease.
I would definitely recommend this book! It’s fun, sweet, captivating and holds so much depth. I loved meeting the different people who came into the clinic, bringing in all kinds of emotions. I love that the author is willing to take on so many difficult topics with ease.
December 3, 2021
This review is overdue. I read this a few months ago and I really loved it.
The love triangle isn't usually a trope I like but I enjoyed the way this one played out, and how believable the dialogue was.
People don't always say what they think, don't always make the choice they know they should, often are unaware of other people's intentions. Leah Omar wrote these imperfections into her characters very well.
This book was not perfect.. There were a few overused words but that was minor, and the main character's parents (perfect loving dad and naggy/insensitive mom) were a bit too cliche for my taste, but it didn't ruin my 5-star rating.
I had to know what happened and when I can't put a book down it's an automatic 5 star. ♥
The love triangle isn't usually a trope I like but I enjoyed the way this one played out, and how believable the dialogue was.
People don't always say what they think, don't always make the choice they know they should, often are unaware of other people's intentions. Leah Omar wrote these imperfections into her characters very well.
This book was not perfect.. There were a few overused words but that was minor, and the main character's parents (perfect loving dad and naggy/insensitive mom) were a bit too cliche for my taste, but it didn't ruin my 5-star rating.
I had to know what happened and when I can't put a book down it's an automatic 5 star. ♥
June 3, 2022
I liked this book. I was VERY afraid it was going to be a "White saviour goes to volunteer in Africa and learns life lessons" kind of book, but overall I was pleasantly surprised. The book doesn't shy away from the realities of health care in rural Tanzania, and ultimately, the main character learns to adapt to that society, to do some good in the best way for that situation, rather than *magically fixing it* by making it more like the USA.
I found Kate's relationship with her parents and ex-fiance to be confusing and not believable (she keeps "making up her mind" that she is over her ex and is going to clear the air and move on, but then stalling the next day because she's still so confused??? This happened SO many times and it got old QUICKLY, it really dragged out the story unnecessarily and felt like filler. She basically never grew out of being a spineless jellyfish afraid to ever hurt anyone or stand up for herself AT ALL - it was extreme to the point of being annoying).
However, I was quite impressed with her and Andrew's love story. The characters had real chemistry and the struggles of an interracial relationship were not only depicted, they were DISCUSSED by the characters. They had actually talks about racism that included the anger and guilt of a real conversation. It wasn't all about "educating the shocked White person" - once again, it was Kate who had to listen, accept someone else's reality, and adapt her worldview and behaviour accordingly. The struggles and miscommunications involved really rang true (as well as the intimate and joyful moments). Tbh I wish the whole book had just been her in Tanzania with Andrew, with NO ex-fiance and weird parents subplot.
I found Kate's relationship with her parents and ex-fiance to be confusing and not believable (she keeps "making up her mind" that she is over her ex and is going to clear the air and move on, but then stalling the next day because she's still so confused??? This happened SO many times and it got old QUICKLY, it really dragged out the story unnecessarily and felt like filler. She basically never grew out of being a spineless jellyfish afraid to ever hurt anyone or stand up for herself AT ALL - it was extreme to the point of being annoying).
However, I was quite impressed with her and Andrew's love story. The characters had real chemistry and the struggles of an interracial relationship were not only depicted, they were DISCUSSED by the characters. They had actually talks about racism that included the anger and guilt of a real conversation. It wasn't all about "educating the shocked White person" - once again, it was Kate who had to listen, accept someone else's reality, and adapt her worldview and behaviour accordingly. The struggles and miscommunications involved really rang true (as well as the intimate and joyful moments). Tbh I wish the whole book had just been her in Tanzania with Andrew, with NO ex-fiance and weird parents subplot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2021
A wonderful modern-day love story. Capturing several current hot-button global issues, Omar weaves together race, interracial relationships, healthcare in developing countries, midwifery, and more. She ultimately creates a subtle open-ended dialogue for one's own personal reflection on such topics. She pens her characters alive and it's easy to feel a true connection to them. Omar's writing is honest, thoughtful, and imaginative, and it's clear she cares deeply for the world around us. Bravo on your debut novel!
May 12, 2021
I was transported to a place I had never been but needed to go
This is a new author who was recommended by a relative. Fascinating storyline, not predictable with thought provoking situations. I feel as though I learned not only what it means to follow your heart but how much we take for granted in our privilege. Thank you to the author for gently taking me on this journey of awareness of a world so foreign to me.
This is a new author who was recommended by a relative. Fascinating storyline, not predictable with thought provoking situations. I feel as though I learned not only what it means to follow your heart but how much we take for granted in our privilege. Thank you to the author for gently taking me on this journey of awareness of a world so foreign to me.
May 16, 2021
Summer is coming in the Midwest and this book couldn’t have been published at a better time. I spent an afternoon in the backyard and couldn’t put this book down. The author does such a great job capturing that moment of being on the cusp of real independence and learning how to trust your gut and follow your heart. Truly the perfect read for a sunny weekend afternoon. Can’t recommend it highly enough.
February 16, 2022
What can I say without spoiling this amazingly good book for everyone. The book is so good, I had some laughs, crowds and all the inbetweens. It’s a lovers to Enemies and Friends to lovers tropes. I loved every second of this book and wish it didn’t have to end. I do hope there is second book cause I need more. I need more Kate and Andrew and Maria and Noor and etc. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
February 5, 2023
I loved this unique love story, mostly because it's so different than other romances that are out there. I loved that it took place in Tanzania, and featured couples from different races. I also enjoyed that it touched on things deeper than I've seen in other books in this genre. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
June 10, 2021
This was an easy and quick read - engaging characters and beautiful descriptions; I could imagine myself in Tanzania, in the bungalows, and in the market. I was disappointed to have it end when I would've much enjoyed reading more of Andrew, Kate, Maria, and Noor.
May 1, 2021
I loved this book and getting to know Kate and the Tanzanians. The knowledge of the culture and people made me feel transported to Tanzanian while waiting to see what Kate’s choices led to.
May 24, 2021
Lovely story of a young woman finding her voice, and love.
August 4, 2021
This book was such a page turner and could NOT put it down!! I would highly recommend!!!! I have even bought several and given them as gifts to friends! I am hopeful that there will be another book coming out soon!
December 17, 2023
This romance novel is written from the point of view of the female main character. Heartbroken and depressed, she takes a risk and goes to Tanzania to practice midwifery only because her parents convince her. She grows because of this risk, but is forced to make a life-changing decision. Should she choose the life that has always been her and her family’s expectation, and the love with whom she shares a long history? Or should she give up this comfortable love and home and take a chance on the uncertainty of pursuing a dream-come-true career in a strange land far from her family and home and a passionate lover whom she barely knows, but who ignited feelings in her she has never felt before.
With a slight twist, the author keeps you guessing which choice the main character will make until the very end. This is a novel about relationships and the different kinds of love we find ourselves in, including the love for ourselves. It also touches on some deep social and cultural issues, but does not expand on them.
The novel is worth the read for Omar’s descriptions of life in Tanzania alone. It makes me want to visit. Her writing reminds me of, and is comparable to NYT best selling author, Kristin Hannah.
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June 19, 2022
I loved the writing style of this book. I was able to jump into the shoes of the main character easily and felt all the emotion. It was a clean romance.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews