In branching out to reading Christian fiction around the world, Ready to Be Loved by You by Enewerome was a charming wedding story set in Nigeria that had me wanting some jollof rice and puff-puff by the end of the book. What a fun way to celebrate the diversity of cultures while appreciating the commonalities we share, such as with wedding planning and the joys and whims of working with bridal parties. Levi and Vivienne's story had me feeling like I was at a wedding the entirety of the time I was with them.Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Book Synopsis
Haunted by the wounds from her past, Vivienne Adetokunbo, a fiercely independent professional bridesmaid and video content creator, wants nothing to do with God, love, or marriage. Levi Edegware, despite being saddled with the weight of a past mistake, is a devout Christian and hopeless romantic events coordinator who desires a happy family with a woman who shares the same faith and values about marriage as him.
When a wedding mishap throws them together, their first encounter is far from a fairytale. However, things take a turn when Vivienne and Levi become colleagues, which forces them to confront their fears, beliefs, and desires.
As Levi shows Vivienne kindness she's never known, an undeniable connection grows between them. But will Vivienne let go of her fears to embrace God's love and a future with Levi, or will her walls remain unbroken? Will Levi forsake all he has ever known to be with the woman he sees a future with?
Source: Amazon
Book Thoughts
After attending a Nigerian wedding and getting to observe some of the cultural practices and partake in the food, I enjoyed this book even more. It was wonderful to relive those moments by meeting Levi and Vivienne, who are heavily involved in the wedding scene through their occupations. I also appreciated learning more about how Christianity is practiced in Nigeria, opening my eyes to the broader church body and some of the ways that they exercise their faith. Despite being unfamiliar with some of these practices along with some of the terminology, the author was very inclusive by providing a glossary for readers while also making the story relatable to most common experiences that people have at weddings, including a few Bridezilla stories. The book also employs overlapping dual POV, which may be new to some readers, like it was for me.
What stood out in this book was just how grounded it was in being equally yoked and not starting any relationships before the matter of faith in God was settled. The themes of obedience and placing God's Word ahead of our emotions were well-represented in how Levi conducted himself, especially when he had to deny himself and not violate his conscience. This book focuses on making things right—both with God and with others—leading to some moving family scenes. If readers are looking to expand their Christian fiction to other countries, Ready to Be Loved by You is a joyful celebration of Nigerian wedding customs, while introducing characters who seek to honour God and follow His will.
Book Summary
- Format of book: 📱
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Recommendation: 👍
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