To Win a Prince

Thanks to Netgalley for my review copy.

I read the first book In Search of a Prince and enjoyed it. We got to meet both Iris and Ekon in that book. Now they have their own story and I must say I enjoyed this book even more. Iris has started her fashion business to help locals get out of poverty and has big plans. Ekon has been sentenced to do community service which includes helping as a business consultant for Iris’s new business.

Right from the start we can see Iris is struggling with her attraction to Ekon who is a non believer. Which is partly due to how he was raised. We will see her struggle because she doesn’t want to be unequally yoked but she still has feelings for Ekon. Ekon also has feelings but feels unworthy for a different reason. I won’t go into to much as it is for the reader to see what happens. But we do see what many christians struggle with.

We also see how Ekon’s father disowns him early in the book and how it also affects him. I disliked his father and found him to be extremely tough and uncaring. We do find out more about him and his story which will shed light on the situation. We also see a lot of growth in both characters. The book flows well and is in the first person with each chapter the POV of either Heroine or Hero which helps get to know them better.

I like how their isn’t an easy fix. So many books will just have the non christian character go to church and be converted. That doesn’t instantly happen and we see a real struggle. As it is CCR we know their is a happy ending so am not giving anything away in saying this. I can see at least one more character I want to have his own personal story but time will tell.

If you enjoyed In Search of a Prince you will see cross over characters and I am sure you will not be disappointed. One of my top reads for the year.

To Win a Prince is a marvelous sequel to In Search of a Prince. Ms Shiloh has woven a marvelous continuation of her story from an exotic African island. The characters in this story are well developed and feel real-to-life. Prince Ekon is a returning character from the previous book, and I enjoyed reading about him, getting to know more of his personality, and watching how he changed throughout the story. Iris is such a lovely and bubbly part of the story, and I appreciate how she showed real friendship, kindness, and genuine Christlikeness through the story. No one is perfect in this story, and I appreciate the realness and authenticity portrayed. It was well-written, well-plotted, and enjoyable. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet romantic story with meat and depth to the storyline. It isn’t a fairytale, but it does have a beautiful new Queen, a best friend fashion-designer, a charity business, and a displaced former Prince.

Ekon Diallo, the disgraced prince who tried to overthrow the crown, is forced to perform work for Iris in her fledgling business designed to help women build sustainable careers in fashion. Despite Ekon's troubles, Iris is drawn to him. The problem is she is more given to emotion and fantasy than to reality. Still, the way she helps Ekon get back on his feet after everything is stripped away from him is heartwarming. It's also wonderful seeing how Ekon grows and learns how to do things for himself. I enjoyed it a lot.

I loved this second book set in Oloro Ile. It's a book that makes you excited to pick it up and keep reading. I hope there are more...maybe about Iris' brother. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

A great follow up to In Search of a Prince! Can be read as a standalone, but a richer story when read with In Search of a Prince. I love the characters in this story and the growth that they both had to go through both personally and spiritually. Such a great story of redemption and forgiveness with a twist thrown in towards the end! A great read for lovers of sweet romance.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This is the second book in Ọlọrọ Ilé series though it’s a standalone. You do not need to read the first book to quickly understand or get into the second book, though I recommend the first book since it is just as good as the second one.

This book follows Brielle’s, queen of Oloro Ilé, best friend Iris. Iris is now a resident in Oloro Ilé, building her fashion business. But Ekon, the other main character next to Iris, is summoned to work for her as part of his punishment for conspiring to take the queen’s throne.

The main plot of the story is character based. It follows Iris and Ekon as they learn about each other, how they relate to each other, and how the adapt to their new lives and positions in Oloro Ilé. I found the plot authentically written, from the environment, which was immersive, to character struggles, internal and external. I especially think the author did a great job illustrating how one sorts out their thoughts – fears and desires, with God as their foundation.

There were no true negatives for me. The story was evenly paced, and every chapter served a purpose. Though I assumed how things would end, I didn’t know how those things would get there. Plus, I couldn’t predict some of the surprises that popped up towards the end.

In sum, I recommend this book to those who like internationally based stories and clean romances with heartfelt, relatable characters.

***This book was given to me by Bethany House and NetGalley for an honest review.***

I loved reading To Win a Prince, Toni Shiloh’s sequel to the wonderful In Search of a Prince. The book can be read as a standalone. That said, knowing the history of what happened during In Search of a Prince meant I was more invested in the characters from the start. This story contains spoilers for In Search of a Prince, and the books are best read in chronological order.

I adored Iris, who is Bree’s best friend from the first book. When Bree discovered she was a princess, Iris traveled with Bree from the USA to the African island country. Bree is now the queen, and Iris is living permanently on the island. Iris is setting up a sustainable fashion business to help the local people earn good money and raise their standard of living.

I didn’t like Ekon in the first book, and it was interesting to unpack his story and understand why he had made certain decisions. Ekon is living out the consequences of his past actions, which places him in Iris’ world, and working closely with her.

I loved how Iris wasn’t prepared to settle and, despite being attracted to Ekon, she was determined to only marry a man who shared her faith and values. Ekon’s inspiring faith journey of forgiveness and redemption played an important role in their developing romance. I recommend To Win a Prince to contemporary romance readers who like royalty romances in an African setting with a strong faith element in the story.

Author Toni Shiloh pens another well-written contemporary inspirational romance featuring a Black American woman who falls for a disenfranchised African prince.

In To Win A Prince, fashion entrepreneur Iris Blakely establishes her fashion business in the African nation where her best friend Brielle is queen (see To Search For a Prince). Bri assigns Ekon Diallo to guide her through local business requirements. Stripped of his princely title and forced to do community service, disgraced Ekon serves as her business consultant to make amends for his actions.

Can an entitled Ekon learn from his experiences to become a better man? Can Iris benefit from his business acumen without losing her heart? Can they learn from one another?

Shiloh, author of numerous contemporary romances, creates another royal romance that builds on her earlier work (To Search For a Prince), also set in the fictional Oloro Ilé, a tropical African island. Iris is a compassionate visionary, while Ekon is an unlikeable nobleman whose actions strip him of his privileges. As he navigates his new life, Ekon is faced with abandonment by his family and friends, but Iris recognizes his potential and befriends him.

Forgiveness, a nod to the prodigal story in the Bible, family secrets, second chances, and redemption permeate the novel. Readers will welcome a return to Oloro Ilé, rejoice to see Bri’s story updated as well as meet new characters. As with her other works, To Win A Prince is a clean romance, with faith elements and a good storyline.

Recommended for all fans of royal romance fiction, especially fans of Rachel Hauck and Carol Moncado.

Carol R. Gehringer
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.

No surprise here, as I'm for sure a Toni Shiloh fan, but I loved To Win a Prince! It was so much fun to return to what I imagine in my head is the beautiful country of Ọlọrọ Ilé. While not a technical sequel, this book picks up after In Search of a Prince ends. In To Win a Prince, we get the story of Bri’s best friend Iris, who is such a fun, dynamic, go-get-em type of girl. I mean, you kind of have to be this kind of powerhouse if you want to move to a completely new country that is so far from home and open and operate a new business to help give the women of this country a way to leave poverty.

After reading In Search of a Prince, I had absolutely no idea how I could possibly like Ekon enough to root for him as the leading man in a romance novel, but I just had to trust Toni Shiloh that there was a reason to love him and that what Iris saw in him, we would see at some point. And that was certainly the case. Ekon had such a redemption story arc that eventually I was able to give him the benefit of the doubt. After he was required to work with Iris as part of his punishment from actions you read about in In Search of a Prince (no spoilers, go read it!), he is shown just how privileged a life he has lived, how he has the ability to make a life for himself, and how the love of Jesus can change your life.

There were SO MANY heart wrenching but also just absolutely incredible moments that I can’t go into detail about because it would contain spoilers. But let me just say it brought tears to my eyes because of just how powerful and moving these moments were. Like wow. I highly encourage anyone to read this book. You don’t need to read In Search of a Prince first, but that is also a good book so I recommend that as well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and I’m leaving an honest and voluntary review.

This is a great read! I loved everything about this book, the setting, the characters and the power of God's redemption. This book will touch your heart and soul. It deserves more than 5 stars!!
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House and Toni Shiloh via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This was another beautiful, faith-filled story from Toni Shiloh.

I really liked Iris in the previous book, and was so happy that she got her own story. She really shines here. Her compassion and empathy are on full display. I loved how she saw the best in people, even when they couldn't see it themselves. She was such an encouraging friend.

Now, Ekon, on the other hand? I didn't think there was any way I'd like him. His actions from the previous book and his snobby attitude at the beginning of this one had me cringing. But WOW! What a redemption story! I don't want to say too much, but I was in awe by the end of the story.

I enjoyed this followup story just as much as its predecessor, In Search of a Prince, which was a tall order considering how much I adored that one. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys inspiring romances.

I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

This book was fabulous! I love a good redemption story with a love story plot. Iris was an enjoyable character and when I thought I had it all figured out the story took an unexpected twist! I wish Oloro was real.

An American fashion designer and a disgraced prince find their hearts at risk in this modern fairy tale.

Iris Blakely is ready to take the fashion world by storm, creating a sustainable line of clothes to bring more opportunities for fair trade and commerce to Oloro Ilé. I loved that Iris got her own story as she was one of my favorites from In Search of a Prince, I loved her passion for her project, as well as her heart for others. I liked getting to know more about her and her family as well as continuing to see her standing by her best friend Bri.

One of my favorite things was seeing Ekon's evolution over the course of the book, his attitude and heart, as well as perspective. I admired his willingness to learn, and loved seeing him try new things.

A wonderful follow up to In Search of a Prince, that brings to life a different side of Oloro Ilé outside the royal walls. Strong themes of faith and redemption, as coupled with a sweet modern royal romance make for a nearly irresistible combination! You won't want to miss Iris's story in To Win a Prince!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is the first book I've read by Toni Shiloh, and I really enjoyed it! I did not read the first book in the series, but I didn't need to in order to catch up with the characters.

The main character, Iris, loves fashion and she wants to bring something to the little island her best friend, Bri, find herself ruling as their queen. In the book prior, the love interest in TO WIN A PRINCE, Ekon, tried to help dethrone the rightful heir. As a result of his transgressions, he loses his title and now has to work with Iris to help get her fashion company up and running.

Thus bringing them together.

I loved how Shiloh so artfully spun a romance not meant to be if the two were unequally yoked, also showing how that scripture is properly translated (which I loved). Iris is a romantic and had a crush on Ekon before this book began; however, she does not allow herself to go there because he does not believe in God. His journey to find himself, become a better man, and also find God was beautiful. It made their love story all the more interesting and deeper than others that I have read.

There was a little cheese, but the sharp cheddar goodness we all love. I will definitely be reading another book by this author!

To Win A Prince is an absolutely wonderful follow up novel to In Search Of A Prince. I loved the thread of redemption that runs through the book as Ekon goes from disgraced prince to humble jewelry designer and follower of Christ. It’s not an easy journey as he must change his perception of what is important in life.
I’m glad Iris got her story. Her character drew me to her in the previous book and I was looking forward to where life would lead her. She was drawn to Ekon from the beginning even though he was intended for Bri, and after his downfall she is instrumental in helping him change.
Of course, there’s got to be a little conflict, attraction, and romance to round out the story and this one has the perfect balance. I recommend this book.
I received a copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews and reviews and NetGalley. This is my honest review.

If you enjoy contemporary romance, I highly recommend giving Toni Shiloh’s books a read! Although I personally didn’t enjoy To Win a Prince as much as In Search of a Prince, Shiloh has a great writing style. I think what made it more difficult for me to get into this book was the near-instant love—it read like way more than a mere crush. That being said though, Shiloh does write romantic tension very well. With her fresh voice and lovely gift for storytelling, you definitely need to add Shiloh’s books to your TBR. 3.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I was so excited to read To Win a Prince, by Tony Shiloh, since this book is about Iris Blakely, Brielle Adebayo's best friend (from In Search of a Prince).

Iris is a staunch and steadfast friend to Brielle, queen of Oloro Ile, a fictional African island. Anyone would value and appreciate having Iris as their friend, too. She has a strong desire to assist Oloro Ile's female population to escape abject poverty. To accomplish her goal, she puts her fashion sense to the task and starts a business.

Ekon Diallo's assignment to finish his community service by working as a business consultant at Iris's fledgling commercial enterprise leaves her feeling more than a little overwhelmed, and for good reason.

Shiloh has a gift of exquisitely expressing the island's richness and beauty as well as the kindness and forgiving nature of the characters. She does it in a way that piques your interest and your desire to take a trip there in order to see and experience all she details. This story is a wonderful romance, sprinkled with a dashes of humor, religion, and realism.

Despite being a sequel, To Win a Prince can be read independently and is easy to follow along.

I received an advanced review copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

A huge thanks to Bethany House Publishers for my complimentary copy and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I am a huge fan of Toni Shiloh so was so excited to read this book. In the book we follow the ' cunning' Ekon who is forced amicably to work with Iris . This is a story of how God's love will find us, run us over and how redemption is for all of us. Toni Shiloh brings out themes such as love, mercy, grace, God's timing. Highly recommend it.

I love Toni Shiloh’s newest story To Win A Prince - the perfect follow up for In Search of a Prince. As we return to Oloro Ilé, we find Iris Blakely running her new business. But when she discovers that Ekon Diallo will be her business consultant, the battle between her desires and reality begins.

Toni Shiloh does an amazing job bringing all the rich culture of this island African nation to life for the reader. If you like contemporary fairy tales and stories of redemption, read this book! I love the main characters because we witness their journeys of personal growth throughout the story.

For Iris, we see her learn to really trust God for the hopes and dreams she has for her life. Her devotion to God and His will for her life are truly inspirational to the reader.

Ekon’s journey looks a little different, as he comes to terms with his new place in society. He learns some hard lessons as well, discovering nobility has very little to do with one’s royal heritage and title. “I had gone from believing nobles were above others to knowing that true nobility came from the heart. True nobility did not rise above but lifted those around them.”

Toni Shiloh fills the pages with descriptions of the beautiful scenery, culture and life on the island, along with real life lessons and lots of humor and romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.

While not being explicitly marketed as a series, To Win a Prince is a follow-up to Toni Shiloh’s previous Bethany House release, In Search of a Prince. Two supporting characters from the first book are now the focus, and while this book is very much a stand-alone, you get further context for the relationships between the characters and the hero’s current predicament by reading in order.

Ekon was involved in some shady stuff in the previous book, but I always got a sense there was something more to it. He has complex family loyalties, and those conflicted with his loyalty to his country. He’s sentenced to contributing to the community, which gives him more perspective of the privilege he has been afforded due to his position, but simultaneously the messiness of his family and secrets of his true origins begin unraveling. I love seeing him going from the cocky, self-assured royal of book one to someone who doesn’t even know where he stands in relation to those who raised him, because of those secrets.

Iris is a pretty cool character too. It’s fun seeing her working to do good in helping the citizens of Oloro Ilé. She does get much less development by comparison, with her role serving mainly as a guide for Ekon on his path of redemption and self-discovery. Their romance is pretty cute, and it’s great to see them connect as they spend time together.

Structurally, this book is a bit different than the first. The first book was first and foremost Bri’s journey as she came into her own as a ruler, with the prominent subplot that she needed to choose a husband. But this book follows both Ekon and Iris on their journey together, following the romance beats a bit more closely. Narratively, I enjoyed the first book more because it was heavier on the intrigue, but Ekon’s character arc made me really enjoy this one.

This is another sweet read from Toni Shiloh, and while there are some stylistic differences, I would recommend it to fans of the first book who want to continue the story. And if you’re looking for a Christian/low-heat Black romance, I recommend giving this one a try.

so so good! I loved the sequel! Iris is a fun main charecter. I loved the dynamics of her relationship and the mc hero is so swoony

Oh my goodness, I love this series! To Win a Prince is such a great follow up to In Search of a Prince. I enjoyed being back in Ọlọrọ Ilé, Africa and getting an update on Brielle while her best friend Iris Blakely gets a chance to run her start up fashion company to help struggling citizens rise above poverty. Ekon Diallo has lost everything and is forced by royal council decree to help Iris get her company off the ground.

This story is so much more than a story about a prince. It is a beautiful story about walking with the Lord even when we feel unworthy.

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the characters become who they were meant to be. I enjoyed the friendships, the family dynamics, and the humor sprinkled through this story. I marvelled at the compassion, mercy, love, and forgiveness in this story, and I felt sorrowful at the lack of love in one family.

Here are some of my favorite quotes:
"Would it be too much to have a button under my desk to press that alerted my secretary to guests who needed to be ejected from the building?"
"Okay, his superior attitude was starting to grate on my nerves."
"Mr. Diallo," I intoned, 'do you plan on being a help or a hindrance?"
"A hand appeared in my face, and I screamed, scooting my rollaway chair backward. I crashed into the wall behind me.....My face took on the hue of the Humand Torch."
"Careful, your snobbery is showing." "Boy this prince-ex-prince-was having a rough time of it."
"When was the last time someone had genuinely cared about my well-being?"
"Oh sesame chicken, I'll never think of you the same way."
"I prayed that Ekon would soften his heart toward the Lord."

I highly recommend To Win a Prince and I thank the publisher and net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

A great continuation of In Search of a Prince. There are so many great themes in this story - love, mercy, grace, the need for patience, God's timing. I also liked the fact that the idea of consequences for our actions is explored. Even if we are forgiven by God and others, we need to accept the consequences of wrong doing. But it is tempered by God's grace and mercy when we feel unworthy.
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Oh man, To Win a Prince is a great read. Toni Shiloh flat out smashed this enchanting sequel. Following on from the hugely successful In Search of a Prince, book two picks up with Iris, the now Queen’s best friend setting up a fashion business in Oloro Ile.

Disgraced former prince Ekon Diallo is sentenced to help Iris navigate the business regulations and cultural requirements for such an endeavor. This is part of his punishment after a failed attempted to prevent Brielle from taking the throne.

Confession time – I’m a sucker for a bad boy with an attitude. Especially one who meets God and gets all straightened out. Not perfect, but right before the Lord. And oh my how Ekon ticks all those emotional boxes.

I loved the glimpse into Ekon’s family. No one writes a rotten parent better than Toni Shiloh. Readers will love watching Ekon become his own man, and then God’s. And if you’re like me, you’ll cheer Iris on as she sets up her business, putting the designers and seamstresses of Oloro Ile on the map.

The faith arc is strong as you’d expect from Toni Shiloh. The love story made me tear up. Highly recommended.

I received a copy from teh publisher via NetGalley. The very high opinion is my own.

This was such a great follow up to In Search of a Prince! I loved Iris in that book and was so glad to get to read her story. The romance was so sweet, and the themes of forgiveness and grace and the true love of a father were so beautiful. The fashion angle was so also really good. I’ll definitely read more books by Toni Shiloh after these!

This story as a follow up to the first book was so fun. I really enjoyed the fashion design aspect, but also the rich to rags storyline. There were the great thinking points throughout the story which brought the lessons home, to draw into more of a thought process on relationship building, walk with God and the sense of losing everything to gain the world.

This is the second book in the African “royal” series by Toni Shiloh.
Iris is the crazy fun-loving friend of the queen of a small island off Africa. Readers met the queen in the first book, In Search of a Prince.
Ekon had mistakenly been a small part of a plot to dethrone the queen, his punishment was to work with Iris, helping to get her company started. The problem was their feelings for each other. He was a prince stripped of his title, a criminal, and a non-believer. She was an American, a friend of the queen, and a believer in Christ. Could they work together and not let their hearts get in the way?
Toni Shiloh has a wonderful way of conveying the feelings of each of the characters in this book. She has just the right way to bring these characters to life. She really is a joy to read.
Through it all there is a strong message of how God loves us and will be there for us, even when we feel unworthy and like life keeps giving us struggles after struggles. When everything is stripped away, our hope should lay in the ONLY ONE who can help.
I highly recommend you read this book!
I was given this book by the author which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

When I think of romance, I think of books just like this one, that gives all the feels and satisfies every romance junkies' heart. This is a perfect book to snuggle up with on any day.

This is the story of Iris, an American woman living in Africa and starting her own fashion business. She’s forced to take on Ekon, a prince who’s lost his title and his status to pay for his crimes to the crown. He is obligated to fulfill community service and provide his expertise to Iris as part of a revival effort for the community.

The beginning of this story was a bit of a slow burn for me, but once the story picks up momentum we see how much is in the works as Iris and Ekon develop their relationship with one another in and outside of work. I loved Iris’ character and could totally relate to her personality and the way she processes through her thoughts and feelings. I really appreciated the redemption story that Ekon has throughout the story. Beautiful learning moments, family moments, and unexpected relationships throughout the book made this such a satisfying and entertaining story to read. The conclusion of the story was so sweet and heart warming. I loved the themes of forgiveness, second chances and finding peace with God.

Read this if you love:
❤️ forbidden romance
❤️ forced proximity
❤️ second chances
❤️ wholesome romance

Many thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.

I really enjoyed this sequel. In the first book I fell in love with both Brielle and Iris in the first book, so I was excited that Iris got her own story. I really resonated with Iris and her wrestling in her prayers with God. We see her grow and gain confidence in herself and her abilities. Ekon, now he was a conundrum. In the first book we do not get a great impression of him. However, we should never judge a book by it's cover and this is definitely the case with Ekon. Once we see underneath, you can't help but fall in love with him as a character and root for him. Wonderful read, I will be adding both of the books to my shelf, and can't wait to share them with my daughter when she gets older.

A worth while follow up. This is Book 2 of the series and I personally enjoyed this one more than the first.

I really like Iris and Ekon’s redemption story was well done.

Awesome installment in the world of Oloro Ile. It stands well on its own and the other is not necessary to understand or enjoy this one, but just know that In Search of a Prince is on my top 10 and isn't likely to be bumped!

I thoroughly enjoyed Iris in In Search of a Prince, and was excited to see that the author was giving her her own book.

And Ekon? Well, he was a puzzle in the first story, and I was curious about him. Let's just say his story is far more complex than I thought possible, and yet, as the story unravels, it makes perfect sense.

I read To Win a Prince 2x back to back, and I don’t usually do that, even with favorite books /authors. I usually wait at least a year or two before I read it again.

Iris's journey in growing her prayer life is well written. I know that's an area many of us struggle with, and if you need some inspiration and encouragement in that area, come alongside Iris!

Ekon has a different, and far more difficult journey, as he struggles with many issues, not the least of which is this God Iris keeps pointing him to.

But this story is full of endless possibilities, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

I received a copy of this book from @netgalley and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.

I love anything and everything that Toni Shiloh writes and this is no exception. This story was about God’s direction and redemption. Iris is the positive and bubbly best friend of the queen. Elon was the prince who unwittingly participated in the prior scandal in the first book (no spoilers). He was such a different character from the 1st book to this one. He learned how to be more independent with his life by depending on God for direction. I love how they both fought their feelings until they couldn’t. Wonderful book!

I love Shiloh's books set on the island of Ọlọrọ Ilé. In this second book which follows In Search of a Prince, we find Iris, a delightful, dedicated lady, setting up a new business to help local artisans. Ekon Diallo's story continues from book one, and now he is making penance for his wrong doing that happens to mean he is working with Iris in her new business. Sparks fly in this story of redemption, forgiveness, and romance. Shiloh has written another lovely story set on an amazing island with interesting characters. If you enjoy romance that is sweet, fun, and a bit fiery you'll love To Win a Prince.

I really enjoyed Shiloh's first book about the imaginary country of Ọlọrọ Ilé, Africa, "In Search of a Prince". I also liked this second book, told from the perspective of Bri's best friend, Iris, and disgraced former prince Ekon. But it lacked some of the freshness of the first, feeling a bit more formulaic, with no doubt that Ekon would come to faith in Jesus and change his ways. Recommended for those who have read the first and want to return to Ọlọrọ Ilé or for those who enjoy the comfort of predictability.

The African island country Ọlọrọ Ilé carries secrets—secrets that will change the kingdom!

Toni Shiloh’s second book, To Win a Prince, set in the fictional country of Ọlọrọ Ilé, may seem like a romantic romp about a seemingly naïve fashion aficionado and a prince who not only betrayed her best friend, the queen, but has lost his royal title—but this story is so much more.

Shiloh digs deep into the characters of Iris and Ekon and guides us on a journey through beautiful Ọlọrọ Ilé and her people. This is more than a fairytale continued, this is a novel with depth and realness that had me grabbing more than one tissue and laughing out loud.

I love how Shiloh further developed Iris Blakely’s dreams of starting a sustainable clothing line to help the women in the impoverished areas and honor the country's resources. Even though Iris is saddled with Ekon—someone she had once been infatuated with—to be her business consultant. Her old fascinations resurface and grow with each day they work together.

Ekon has lost everything: his princely title, his material possessions, his friends, and the respect of his fellow Ọlọrans. His pride, though badly bruised, is still operational. He isn’t above criticizing his boss and anyone around him. But his first day working with Iris confuses him. His first day of community service cleaning litter begins to crack the fortress of entitlement.

While I loved Shiloh’s To Find a Prince for its sophisticated fairytale quality, To Win a Prince has heart with emotional complexity and plenty of predicaments for the characters to work through. Which, of course, caused an all-nighter of reading for me.

I highly recommend for fans of romance, rom-com, redemption stories, and books with strong female characters.

Thanks to Bethany House for the eBook copy through #NetGalley for my honest review.

Do you love a story where the characters are broken and searching for redemption --even if they don't know it? In To Win a Prince, Ekon doens't know how much he needs to be redeemed. And Iris moves from open-hearted to guarded and has to chose to follow God's sovereignty. Add a moment of the prodigal story, and a heavy does of attraction, and this is a book I enjoyed thoroughly. Perfect for readers who love Rachel Hauck's spiritual fairytales.

This book is the continuation of In Search of A Prince by Toni Shiloh. It is delightful, just as good as ISOAP in my opinion. I was so curious about Iris's story after finishing ISOAP and this book tells her story very well and left me satisfied. No spoilers but you will enjoy finding out whether or not Iris wins a prince too! Toni Shiloh is so gifted and this story showcases her talents very well. You believe this African country is real and that the characters are real too! And isn't this cover gorgeous??! Perfect for this awesome book.

A very rich and satisfying story. I love the setting, the characters, and the faith. Not heavy handed or preachy. Genuine faith that changes hearts and impacts lives.

My only complaint? I don't want to leave!

Ekon Diallo stalked onto the pages on To Win a Prince with arrogance and disdain. He had been stripped of his title as prince and I started the book thinking, 'serves him right'. But there was more to this character than it first appeared.

As Ms. Shiloh peeled away the layers of this character, I began to feel empathy for him. As his character developed, I began to root for him. I wanted Ekon to have his happy ending. I wanted him to realize he could be worthy of the title he no longer held.

Iris and Ekon's romance was a sweet slow burn that will have readers believing in fairy-tale endings.  Readers will also be reminded that it is God who makes us worthy, not our possessions or the accolades of the world.

To Win a Prince is the second book in the Ọlọrọ Ilé series but can be read as a stand-alone. I received an advanced reader's copy from the publisher through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

I’m so glad Toni Shiloh continues the series in Oloro Ile. The setting is so rich and distinct. The characters are well developed and full of life. They approach life with genuine faith. It’s an all around great story.

Who doesn’t love an all out redemption story? Wow!! Iris sees something: potential and endless possibilities in Ekron. He’s too proud to accept it but broken enough to crave it. Little does he realize, it’s the Light in her he’s drawn to and craves. Despite everything being stripped away, Ekron eats his humble pie and becomes a man of truly noble character. I loved his honest search for God and the transformation that he experiences. It was wonderful to return to the island and catch up on Queen Bri and her life after the coronation.
You don’t have to read ISOP to enjoy TWAP, but my appreciation of the character development and transformation was heightened having read that story first.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

Love can be found at any time. Mistakes from the past can be learning tools. This heartwarming story of faith, family, forgiveness, and love reminds us that change is always possible. Another great story from author Toni Shiloh. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.

I always loved the modern princess stories when I was younger, so I was delighted to find Toni Shiloh wrote yet another classic!

Ekon and Iris have a connection, but also friction!

Betrayal among friends, secrets, romance, pretty dresses...All (and more!) can be found in To Win a Prince!

Although it was a little confusing for me to follow with some of the names, I understand it was French-based and probably more accurate that way given the setting.

I enjoyed this story and if you like Hallmark, sweet romances with crowns involved, I think you'd like this too!

*I was given this book to read in exchange for an honest review. All opinions above are my own.*

Toni Shiloh never... and I do mean NEVER... disappoints! Her stories are always well-written, with a close attention to detail and a good amount of life lessons woven in without being preachy. Having read "In Search of a Prince," I was chomping at the bit to get my hands on "To Win a Prince." I became completely engrossed in Iris and Ekon's story and completely invested in the outcome. The author did an excellent job of showing Ekon's personal and spiritual development, in particular. I hope there will be another installment, possibly Junior's story or Ada's (maybe both?). They were two minor characters I would like to get to know better.

This had a wonderful redemption story about learning from mistakes and changing for the better. I was definitely excited to read this book especially because I already knew the characters a bit. To Win a Prince is Toni Shiloh's new book and it is set in the same world as In Search of a Prince. It is actually about Iris and Ekon.
Iris was so fun, she was very expressive and worked hard. Iris wanted to help the women on the island create a life for themselves but there were so many obstacles in her way. I loved how Iris strove to see the good in people. However Iris was struggling, she was finding herself falling for Ekon. She wanted to protect her heart but she also longed for a romance to sweep her off her feet. Iris had to learn to wait on God’s timing and trust in God’s plan even when her life feels crazy.
Oh, I felt for Ekon. He was a bit of a spoiled jerk at first, but he quickly grew on me. He grew up with comfort and means, and he had to learn what it meant to humble himself. I really enjoyed reading about his growth and seeing him being open to learning and changing. He worked hard and underneath his attitude, he was a kind man. Ekon had to learn to let go of his pride and turn to God. He had to be willing to be brought low so that he might become a better man.
Ekon and Iris were sweet to read about. They felt a connection for each other, but they both were fighting against it. I loved their interactions and their eazy conversations. They were just so cute and they learned to care for each other.
The story was really interesting. Ekon was fighting to redeem himself and Iris was fighting for her business. I was really investing and I read this book so quickly. I am crossing my fingers that more books will come from this world because I saw some hints of other couples.
To Win a Prince was wonderful and even better than the first! I loved the characters and I grew to know them. I also enjoyed the faith that Shiloh wrove into the story, God was truly present in this story. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy Christian contemporary romances. To Win a Prince is a clean Christian contemporary romance.


I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.

To Win a Prince is another sweet romance set in the fictional African island country, Ọlọrọ Ilé! Iris Blakely is best friend of the queen, a new business owner, and a champion of lost causes. Which is a good thing, since the council has assigned former prince Ekon Diallo to work out part of his community service assignment as a business consultant to Iris’ new business. While Ekon’s business skills prove an asset to building the company, his handsome face brings Iris a whole new set of challenges.

I honestly got a bit worried for Iris as I read To Win a Prince. I was bothered by a few of her choices (especially since she wasn’t confiding everything in her best friend Bri!) and was afraid that this story would go along the lines of “missionary dating” (honestly, for a bit, it did). But author Toni Shiloh writes not only sweet romances but powerful redemption stories. And I still think that Bri and Iris are one of my favorite “best friend” pairs in Christian fiction!

Ah-mazing. I only liked this book a tiny bit less than the first one.
Iris is an amazing main character, and it was fun to read about her new business startup in Oloro Ile.
And then there's Ekon. Now...he's a character I did NOT like in the previous novel. But...I have to admit, he kind of grew on me. You see, Toni Shiloh has a talent for writing real people. With real issues. Make them come to life in front of your eyes, and make the reader like them.
Back to Ekon...he is punished for his part in trying to oust the queen (who also happens to be Iris' BFF Bri). His punishment, although not as severe as death or imprisonment, still does feel quite severe to a guy having grown up living off a trust fund, with not a thought or care about how much money he was spending... He has to learn how to live on his own, within a budget, support himself. I loved watching his character grow.
The storyline was intriguing and amazing. I found it very fascinating.
The country of Oloro Ile came alive for me, and I still wish it were real so that I could actually go there.
If you are a fan of princess stories, and especially if you read and enjoyed "In Search of a Prince", be sure and read this one!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Refreshing, real, relatable.

I love how it makes me want to pray more and be a better Christian, I feel as if a I’ve a higher standard of bold to live up to.

Iris has an internal dialog that is absolutely adorable, and I seriously want to be like her mom. She’s fantastic, and so courageous.

The realities of growing up are so real, which is nostalgic. I look forward to the release so I can add the hard copy into our personal library and our children can read it to see variance in socioeconomic upbringings and how real life is no matter where you were born on that scale.

Ekon’s perspective is so raw. Sometimes I think Christian’s are afraid to ask hard questions because God’s ways are not ours, but Ekon isn’t coming from a Christian upbringing and that creates an authentic perspective of asking without already assuming or knowing the glib answers. I’ll admit my perspective of him (see In Search of a Prince), wasn’t very forgiving or Christian in nature, and his internal dialog and actions reminded me of why I need to dial down judgment for people who speak little. Not everyone wears their emotions and thoughts on their sleeve, but they do always have reasons.

To Win a Prince has repeatedly brought me to tears, and yet they were usually tears of relief. It feels like having several friends of my heart creating clarity between my feelings, mind, and alignment with the Lord, inspiring me to both feel better about myself and wish to be a better person.