Title: The Lagos Love Journals-The Ikoyi Princess

Author: Layemi O-I

Year of Publication: 2024

Number of Pages: 270

Category: Fiction

If Layemi O-I’s first love series, *The Lekki Bride* left you captivated, then *The Ikoyi Princess* is certain to sweep you off your feet. This sequel builds on the charm, drama, and heartfelt moments of its predecessor, delivering a deeply engaging story that solidifies Layemi O-I’s talent for crafting irresistible romantic tales.

While *The Ikoyi Princess* can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, reading *The Lekki Bride* first will enrich your experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricate connections and recurring themes woven throughout both books.

From the very first page, this story grabs your attention, drawing you into the life of the main character with a calm, relatable tone. The writing feels personal, as though the protagonist is a close friend confiding in you about her struggles, challenges, and triumphs. Her story is both unique and universal, making it easy to see yourself reflected in her experiences, even if your circumstances differ.

At its core, *The Ikoyi Princess* continues to explore one of Layemi O-I’s signature themes: the dynamics of a middle-class individual navigating a relationship with someone from a wealthy family. This generational challenge within the Ayo Kessington family is revisited with a fresh perspective, offering a sense of déjà vu that is both comforting and intriguing.

The narrative takes an unexpected turn as the wealthy characters encounter an even more affluent class, experiencing a role reversal that highlights the struggles often faced by the middle class. This shift adds depth to the story, giving readers a nuanced view of societal hierarchies and the complexities of relationships that cross socioeconomic boundaries.

Emotionally, the book is a rollercoaster. At times, you feel elated for Bella, celebrating her victories and moments of joy. At other times, you’re overcome with sympathy as she navigates heartbreak and challenges. Layemi O-I masterfully balances these highs and lows, offering a more tempered emotional journey compared to the intensity of *The Lekki Bride.*

For readers who’ve dealt with commitment-averse partners, this book may strike a chord, evoking memories of similar frustrations. Meanwhile, its cinematic quality, reminiscent of Korean romance dramas, keeps you hooked as characters fight passionately for love. True to its romantic essence, the story culminates with the ultimate triumph of love, leaving readers with a sense of satisfaction and hope.

One of the most enticing aspects of *The Ikoyi Princess* is the way Layemi O-I teases what’s to come in the next series. These subtle hints build anticipation, making it nearly impossible not to look forward to the next book. By the time you turn the final page, you’ll likely find yourself eager to collect every book in this series, unwilling to miss a single chapter of this captivating saga.

Layemi O-I has once again delivered a compelling love story that lingers in your heart long after you’ve finished reading. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, *The Ikoyi Princess* is a must-read for anyone who appreciates romance, drama, and stories that speak to the soul.

About the reviewer

Titilade Oyemade is a business executive in a leading organisation and holds a degree in Russian Language. She’s the convener of the Hangoutwithtee Ladies Event and the Publisher of Hangoutwithtee magazine. She spends her weekends attending women conferences, events and book readings. She loves to have fun and to help other women have the same in their lives. Email: [email protected] Social: @tiipreeofficial