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YAHIMBA
The one man she can’t resist!
Still reeling from a heartbreaking and painful loss, Yahimba leaves everything and everyone she knows and moves across the country, determined to put the past behind her. However, she didn't anticipate getting the attention of Eyimofe Alele-Williams, her brother's best friend. Handsome and charming, Eyimofe is the kind of man she knows she could easily fall in love with. But she's been hurt by love before and has no interest in risking her heart again. However, their connection might be too strong. It is a fire that threatens to consume her, igniting a passion she never knew she had. Despite her misgivings about him, Yahimba is left wondering what if? She must grapple with her emotions and decide if she's ready to take the plunge and give in to her feelings for him.
Burned by Love, can she learn to love and trust again?
Or would it be safer to walk away?
Still reeling from a heartbreaking and painful loss, Yahimba leaves everything and everyone she knows and moves across the country, determined to put the past behind her. However, she didn't anticipate getting the attention of Eyimofe Alele-Williams, her brother's best friend. Handsome and charming, Eyimofe is the kind of man she knows she could easily fall in love with. But she's been hurt by love before and has no interest in risking her heart again. However, their connection might be too strong. It is a fire that threatens to consume her, igniting a passion she never knew she had. Despite her misgivings about him, Yahimba is left wondering what if? She must grapple with her emotions and decide if she's ready to take the plunge and give in to her feelings for him.
Burned by Love, can she learn to love and trust again?
Or would it be safer to walk away?
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2024
3 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
O.L. Obonna
6 books8 followersO.L OBONNA was born in Lagos, Nigeria. For as long as she can remember, she has always wanted to tell stories about love and romance by creating and immersing readers in the romantic adventures of fascinating characters. Her stories are a peek into her version of the excitement, allure, and mystery of the age-old sentimental narrative of love, which she so beautifully and intricately weaves together into a genuinely fascinating read. When she’s not surrounding herself with words or reading a romance novel, you can find her in the kitchen trying out new recipes or painting with her children. She enjoys writing and recently joined the world of bloggers.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 31, 2024
I finished reading this book few days back and I kept reeling in the thoughts of this book and trying to put my feelings together. What a better day to review that its release day😁.
YAHIMBA , I must say is such a strong lady because what she passed through would have easily broken anyone into pieces...I'm happy she let go and learnt to trust again, howbeit very difficult🥺. Her story reminded me of a scripture that God sets the solitary in families.
Eyinmofe, was such a sweetheart in this book and kudos for his patience even when he got to his wits end, he still portrayed his love for our 'coconut- head' Yahimba.😂
As for some of the characters in this book, I wanted to give them good lashing, because what sort of inhumane behaviour did they portray? Mama Wande, Wandoo and Bem, hmmmm, no words for them.
📌This book teaches and affirms that hurt people tend to hurt others and true healing comes from accepting what is past, love extended from other people and moving forward.
📌This was a relatable, easy-breezy read with a beautiful plot. I'm eagerly waiting for the other books in its series, as other characters unfold. I'll definitely recommend 👍👏
YAHIMBA , I must say is such a strong lady because what she passed through would have easily broken anyone into pieces...I'm happy she let go and learnt to trust again, howbeit very difficult🥺. Her story reminded me of a scripture that God sets the solitary in families.
Eyinmofe, was such a sweetheart in this book and kudos for his patience even when he got to his wits end, he still portrayed his love for our 'coconut- head' Yahimba.😂
As for some of the characters in this book, I wanted to give them good lashing, because what sort of inhumane behaviour did they portray? Mama Wande, Wandoo and Bem, hmmmm, no words for them.
📌This book teaches and affirms that hurt people tend to hurt others and true healing comes from accepting what is past, love extended from other people and moving forward.
📌This was a relatable, easy-breezy read with a beautiful plot. I'm eagerly waiting for the other books in its series, as other characters unfold. I'll definitely recommend 👍👏
February 9, 2025
2.5⭐ Thank you to the author and Booksirens for allowing me the opportunity to read this story as an eARC. Despite my rating, it means a lot to me and even though this wasn't for me, I know many other people will enjoy this story.
I wanted to love this book so much. I always love finding new love stories that are centred around Black/African people and along with the gorgeous cover, the premise intrigued me. Unfortunately, I just found that the story's execution did not mesh well with my tastes, which is a shame. In the years that I have gotten back into reading, I'm realizing that I don't have patience for certain plots and character types and this book just hit all the marks for what I don't vibe with.
I feel that the book could have benefitted from a lot more editing when it comes to sentence structure and conversation flow. A lot of it felt either stilted or unnatural and I found it taking me out of the story quite a bit. In all honesty, I could have easily moved past this (I still read an ungodly amount of poorly written fanfiction) if it weren't for the fact that I found all of the characters insufferable. Yahimba consistently acts incredibly childish and everyone around her irritated me. Below I am going to go into more detail about my issues so this is a spoiler warning.
Again, this just wasn't for me but I hope more people can find enjoyment in this story!
I wanted to love this book so much. I always love finding new love stories that are centred around Black/African people and along with the gorgeous cover, the premise intrigued me. Unfortunately, I just found that the story's execution did not mesh well with my tastes, which is a shame. In the years that I have gotten back into reading, I'm realizing that I don't have patience for certain plots and character types and this book just hit all the marks for what I don't vibe with.
I feel that the book could have benefitted from a lot more editing when it comes to sentence structure and conversation flow. A lot of it felt either stilted or unnatural and I found it taking me out of the story quite a bit. In all honesty, I could have easily moved past this (I still read an ungodly amount of poorly written fanfiction) if it weren't for the fact that I found all of the characters insufferable. Yahimba consistently acts incredibly childish and everyone around her irritated me. Below I am going to go into more detail about my issues so this is a spoiler warning.
Again, this just wasn't for me but I hope more people can find enjoyment in this story!
September 26, 2024
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for granting my request to read this e-ARC.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Forced proximity! Fake Dating! Brother's bestfriend! Virgin FMC! Light on spice 🌶 and thick on plot 😩! Guy falls first! Wow, this book took me on a ride 😘😍😍. I really enjoyed the love story between Yahimba and Eyinmofe, these two🥺🥺.
I wanted to shake some sense into Yahimba—why stress this guy so much and why always compare him to Bem😩. Eyinmofe is the real deal, and you know it.
Despite all the things Bem, Mama Nande, and her half-sister Wandoo have done to Yahimba, I am so glad she put it all behind her and did not let it hold her down.
I can't wait for the next book in the series ❤😍.
Forced proximity! Fake Dating! Brother's bestfriend! Virgin FMC! Light on spice 🌶 and thick on plot 😩! Guy falls first! Wow, this book took me on a ride 😘😍😍. I really enjoyed the love story between Yahimba and Eyinmofe, these two🥺🥺.
I wanted to shake some sense into Yahimba—why stress this guy so much and why always compare him to Bem😩. Eyinmofe is the real deal, and you know it.
Despite all the things Bem, Mama Nande, and her half-sister Wandoo have done to Yahimba, I am so glad she put it all behind her and did not let it hold her down.
I can't wait for the next book in the series ❤😍.
February 19, 2025
YAHIMBA (The Lagos Elite Club)
By
O.L. Obonna
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Love after heartbreak… can it ever be as beautiful as before? Yahimba by O.L. Obonna is a breathtaking romance that dives deep into loss, healing, and the fear of falling in love again. From the first page, we are introduced to Yahimba, a woman running from a past that has left her broken. Moving across the country is supposed to be a fresh start, a chance to leave behind the pain. But what she doesn’t expect is Eyimofe Alele-Williams—her brother’s best friend. He’s confident, charismatic, and the kind of man who could easily capture her heart. But after the hurt she’s endured, can she allow herself to love again? Or will she walk away from the one man who might be able to show her what true love means? 😍🔥🔥
👉This book is more than just romance—it’s a journey of healing, self-discovery, and learning to trust again. Yahimba is such a relatable character, carrying so much emotional weight, yet still longing for something more. Eyimofe, on the other hand, is patient, persistent, and absolutely swoon-worthy. The way he sees her, understands her, and refuses to give up on their connection makes him the perfect match. Their chemistry is intense, their tension palpable, and every interaction between them feels so real. ❤️
👉O.L. Obonna’s writing is beautifully evocative, pulling you into every moment, every emotion. The slow-burn romance is full of longing, hesitation, and undeniable passion. You feel Yahimba’s struggle—her fear, her desire, her hope. And as the story unfolds, you can’t help but root for her to take that leap of faith. The emotional depth in this book is stunning, making it impossible to put down! 📚✨
👉If you love heartfelt, emotionally rich romances with deep character growth and second chances, Yahimba is an absolute must-read! This story will stay with you long after you turn the last page, reminding you that love—no matter how scary—is always worth the risk. 🥰📚📚🔥🔥
Happy reading 😁 😁
#BookReview
By
O.L. Obonna
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Love after heartbreak… can it ever be as beautiful as before? Yahimba by O.L. Obonna is a breathtaking romance that dives deep into loss, healing, and the fear of falling in love again. From the first page, we are introduced to Yahimba, a woman running from a past that has left her broken. Moving across the country is supposed to be a fresh start, a chance to leave behind the pain. But what she doesn’t expect is Eyimofe Alele-Williams—her brother’s best friend. He’s confident, charismatic, and the kind of man who could easily capture her heart. But after the hurt she’s endured, can she allow herself to love again? Or will she walk away from the one man who might be able to show her what true love means? 😍🔥🔥
👉This book is more than just romance—it’s a journey of healing, self-discovery, and learning to trust again. Yahimba is such a relatable character, carrying so much emotional weight, yet still longing for something more. Eyimofe, on the other hand, is patient, persistent, and absolutely swoon-worthy. The way he sees her, understands her, and refuses to give up on their connection makes him the perfect match. Their chemistry is intense, their tension palpable, and every interaction between them feels so real. ❤️
👉O.L. Obonna’s writing is beautifully evocative, pulling you into every moment, every emotion. The slow-burn romance is full of longing, hesitation, and undeniable passion. You feel Yahimba’s struggle—her fear, her desire, her hope. And as the story unfolds, you can’t help but root for her to take that leap of faith. The emotional depth in this book is stunning, making it impossible to put down! 📚✨
👉If you love heartfelt, emotionally rich romances with deep character growth and second chances, Yahimba is an absolute must-read! This story will stay with you long after you turn the last page, reminding you that love—no matter how scary—is always worth the risk. 🥰📚📚🔥🔥
Happy reading 😁 😁
#BookReview
April 8, 2025
I remember walking past my younger sister’s room when a book (Yahimba) by O.L. Obonna caught my eye. Intrigued, I picked it up and read the plot summary on the back cover. As a lover of romance novels and films, I was instantly drawn in. The writing was refreshingly simple and engaging—very easy to follow but what truly held me captive were the unexpected twists and emotionally rich turns of the story. I began reading around 11 a.m., and by a little past 4 p.m., I had reached the final page.
Just a few observations I can't keep to myself: Yahimba cried a lot, like, her tears deserve their own chapter! At this point, her second name should be Stubborn. And that sister of hers? Nawa o, wahala pro max! 😂. Her grandmother instantly reminded me of Patience Ozokwor—classic vibes! As for Eyimofe, honestly, he shouldn’t have bothered going to see his ex. My guy could’ve just called and updated her. Simple! But these, among others made the book interesting.
That’s a personal milestone—I have not completed a book in one sitting in a very long time. I’m eagerly looking forward to reading Zala, the sequel. This story deserves to be adapted into a Nigerian film with the right cast, it could truly bring the characters to life on screen. Thank you for reigniting my passion for reading and writing. In fact, I was so inspired that I revisited and completed a book I had been developing that very night.
Keep up the amazing work, this is a solid 5-star book for me!
Just a few observations I can't keep to myself: Yahimba cried a lot, like, her tears deserve their own chapter! At this point, her second name should be Stubborn. And that sister of hers? Nawa o, wahala pro max! 😂. Her grandmother instantly reminded me of Patience Ozokwor—classic vibes! As for Eyimofe, honestly, he shouldn’t have bothered going to see his ex. My guy could’ve just called and updated her. Simple! But these, among others made the book interesting.
That’s a personal milestone—I have not completed a book in one sitting in a very long time. I’m eagerly looking forward to reading Zala, the sequel. This story deserves to be adapted into a Nigerian film with the right cast, it could truly bring the characters to life on screen. Thank you for reigniting my passion for reading and writing. In fact, I was so inspired that I revisited and completed a book I had been developing that very night.
Keep up the amazing work, this is a solid 5-star book for me!
May 30, 2025
Yahimba, is the first novel in O.L. Obonna’s Lagos Elite Club trilogy. It is a poignant tale of heartbreak and healing. After a devastating loss, Yahimba relocates across Nigeria, seeking solace and a fresh start. Unexpectedly, she finds herself drawn to Eyimofe Alele-Williams, her brother’s best friend. Their connection is undeniable, but Yahimba grapples with past traumas that make her wary of love.
What I Loved:
•Emotional Depth: The author masterfully portrays Yahimba’s internal struggles, making her journey of healing relatable and heartfelt.
•Character Dynamics: Eyimofe’s patience and understanding provide a comforting contrast to Yahimba’s guarded nature, creating a compelling dynamic.
What Fell Short:
•Pacing Issues: Some sections felt drawn out, potentially disrupting the plot.
•Secondary Characters: Certain side characters lacked depth, leaving their motivations and actions somewhat unclear.
Final Thoughts:
Yahimba is a touching exploration of love’s resilience and the courage it takes to open one’s heart after pain. While it has its pacing flaws, the emotional journey is rewarding. Fans of contemporary romance with emotional depth will find this a worthy read.
What I Loved:
•Emotional Depth: The author masterfully portrays Yahimba’s internal struggles, making her journey of healing relatable and heartfelt.
•Character Dynamics: Eyimofe’s patience and understanding provide a comforting contrast to Yahimba’s guarded nature, creating a compelling dynamic.
What Fell Short:
•Pacing Issues: Some sections felt drawn out, potentially disrupting the plot.
•Secondary Characters: Certain side characters lacked depth, leaving their motivations and actions somewhat unclear.
Final Thoughts:
Yahimba is a touching exploration of love’s resilience and the courage it takes to open one’s heart after pain. While it has its pacing flaws, the emotional journey is rewarding. Fans of contemporary romance with emotional depth will find this a worthy read.
May 30, 2025
I am a lover of books; the way they feel, the way they smell and without a doubt, a collector of interesting reads. A friend recommended this book and its sequel; Part Two and what a journey it has been. A journey of being deep in my feelings, relating to every emotion echoed in its pages. What I love most is its grounding in reality. No fantasies. No perfect happy-ever-afters. Just the raw, honest battle between the mind and the heart.
I savored every part of this book. I especially loved the gentle, slow unfolding of the healing process, how the author shows that mending a broken heart is no easy feat. Heartbreak can shatter or shape the way we think, and this story captures that truth so beautifully. I admire how Yahimba allowed herself to let go, to give love a chance, even while still healing, also, even while still learning to accept that healing takes time.
What I’ve learned is this: I must not let the wounds of the past overshadow the joys of today or steal the hope of tomorrow.
I savored every part of this book. I especially loved the gentle, slow unfolding of the healing process, how the author shows that mending a broken heart is no easy feat. Heartbreak can shatter or shape the way we think, and this story captures that truth so beautifully. I admire how Yahimba allowed herself to let go, to give love a chance, even while still healing, also, even while still learning to accept that healing takes time.
What I’ve learned is this: I must not let the wounds of the past overshadow the joys of today or steal the hope of tomorrow.
October 22, 2024
I enjoyed reading the love story between Yahimba and Eyinmofe.
Yahimba really went through and overcame a lot but in the end she was able to just learn to trust again and let go of all the past hurts of those who did her wrong which is something that we all have to do at some point in our lives. This is what made the book so real.
Eyinmofe is a really sweet guy and just the right person that Yahimba needed in her life to be whole again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Yahimba really went through and overcame a lot but in the end she was able to just learn to trust again and let go of all the past hurts of those who did her wrong which is something that we all have to do at some point in our lives. This is what made the book so real.
Eyinmofe is a really sweet guy and just the right person that Yahimba needed in her life to be whole again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 17, 2025
I actually enjoyed Yahimba, but I can’t deny that I kept hoping the FMC would eventually go for therapy. She really needed it, and without that step toward healing, it felt like the issues between her and Eyimofe were bound to continue. Even though the book is HEA, that emotional gap affected my overall experience with the story and ultimately influenced my rating.
That said, there were things I truly loved. The friendship dynamics in this book were beautiful, honest, and supportive. I also appreciated how the story explored grief and betrayal.
If you enjoy tropes like brother’s best friend, a touch of enemies to lovers, and a fake relationship twist, then this book is definitely worth picking up.
That said, there were things I truly loved. The friendship dynamics in this book were beautiful, honest, and supportive. I also appreciated how the story explored grief and betrayal.
If you enjoy tropes like brother’s best friend, a touch of enemies to lovers, and a fake relationship twist, then this book is definitely worth picking up.
February 7, 2025
I am definitely going to have to keep this author in my rotation from now on. It was a captivating story that had me hooked right from the very beginning of the story. I absolutely enjoyed the flow of the story as well as the characters as they grew and were developed. I an now hooked and will be devouring everything this author puts out.
April 1, 2025
I was so satisfied after reading this book, like that happy feeling you get after receiving money😂 I don't want to write any spoilers but all I have to say is it was gooddd, the language was simple, I didn't have to go to my dictionary every minute, kudos to the author mehnn
August 15, 2025
Absolutely loved this! Randomly picked this up at a bookstore in Lagos and regrettably dropped the second book in the series.
It was so captivating and well written (albeit with a few typos) that I read it in one sitting. The characters were so alive and the themes/storylines so beautifully intertwined. Really, really enjoyed reading this. Naturally, I’m looking forward to reading the other two books in the series.
It was so captivating and well written (albeit with a few typos) that I read it in one sitting. The characters were so alive and the themes/storylines so beautifully intertwined. Really, really enjoyed reading this. Naturally, I’m looking forward to reading the other two books in the series.
February 17, 2025
✨📚🎧 I thoroughly enjoyed this ARC that I received from BookSirens, and rate it 4⭐
Things I loved:
The cultural experience
The FMC/MMC attraction/relationship
The other relationship developments
The FMC growth
Would for sure recommend this book ☺️
Things I loved:
The cultural experience
The FMC/MMC attraction/relationship
The other relationship developments
The FMC growth
Would for sure recommend this book ☺️
October 22, 2024
I enjoyed reading the love story between Yahimba and Eyinmofe.
Yahimba really went through and overcame a lot but in the end she was able to just learn to trust again and let go of all the past hurts of those who did her wrong which is something that we all have to do at some point in our lives. This is what made the book so real.
Eyinmofe is a really sweet guy and just the right person that Yahimba needed in her life to be whole again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Yahimba really went through and overcame a lot but in the end she was able to just learn to trust again and let go of all the past hurts of those who did her wrong which is something that we all have to do at some point in our lives. This is what made the book so real.
Eyinmofe is a really sweet guy and just the right person that Yahimba needed in her life to be whole again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 22, 2024
Everybody gave Yahimba too much space and coddled her too much. She is completely unhinged and need to seek help after all that trauma. Hurt people hurt people and I'm just glad I'm not Eyimofe because I would've left her where she was and never looked back. Broken heart and all. Yahimba doesn't deserve him or this HEA. Loved the book though
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews