In Search of a Prince will keep me smiling for quite some time. The perfect mix of romance, duty and faith, Toni Shiloh’s first novel with Bethany House is a well-conceived and skillfully deceived story that will delight readers.

Can you imagine being told that the father you never knew was an African Prince, and that his father, a man who severed all ties with your family, is dying? These are the bombshells Brielle must face, but then something bigger comes to light. The dying King has named her as his successor. And perhaps worst of all, her mom kept this royal heritage a secret.

After prayerful consideration, Brielle and her best friend get on a private jet to the island she could one day rule. From teh minute they hit the runway, the transformation begins. From language and etiquette lessons, to learning about the history, culture and economic details of Ọlọrọ Ilé, Brielle immerses herself into a side of her life she never knew existed. Reactions from extended family are mixed, but Brielle grows to love her grandfather and is determined to succeed him.

A royal decree…

Until the Royal Council orders she must marry before her grandfather’s death. They give her a shortlist of three tribal princes and despite growing feelings for a palace runner, Brielle embarks on a series of ‘interesting’ dates, but realizes she can’t marry any of the suggested candidates.

Meanwhile, she receives a series of threatening letters. Can her security team figure out who’s sending them, and will Brielle find a real prince before time runs out?

Where do I start – the brilliant characterization, the detailed world-building or the attention-grabbing plot? No, the thing I loved most about the book is the development of the characters. Brielle, in particular had a real journey of faith to go on. Faith in the Lord’s will, faith in her Prince and faith in herself. At every turn, the challenges Brielle faces change and she must learn to adapt in order to serve God and her new country.

This is a lovely story, and I can’t wait for the next offering. Bravo.

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