A Renewed Kind of Love: A Marriage in Trouble Romance

by Adesuwa O'man Nwokedi

When forever isn't forever enough.

Best friends from childhood, Morin and Keji are like sisters, later forming a trio with Keji’s high school boyfriend, Mofe. After graduation, Keji reluctantly leaves for England to study, soon losing contact with her best friend and boyfriend.

After a chance encounter years later, Morin and Mofe form a connection, a connection that leads to love…and marriage. They enjoy several blissful years until life changes put a strain on their marriage, and as they approach their tenth anniversary, their marriage hangs in the balance. Making a bad situation worse, Keji’s unexpected reappearance at their high school reunion sends everything unravelling.

Reignited emotions put the decade-long marriage in jeopardy, leaving Mofe torn between the woman he has pledged forever to…and his high school love.

Genres: Romance

381 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 24, 2024

About the author

The Writer, who became an Engineer, who became an Investment Banker, who became a Fertility Spokesperson, who became…a Writer.
That has been the journey of A. T. Nwokedi, aka The Fertile Chick. A self confessed hopeless romantic, when she is not creating new characters, she devotes her time to creating memories with her husband and their three children.

Reviews

[Uche Ezeudu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC from the author and I've spent the past 48 hours juggling between reading this book and doing "reality things" and all I can say is, "Adesuwa cooked" and I enjoyed each morsel with such relish.
This book would reach out to your core and don't even be surprised when you find yourself crying or feeling all sorts of emotions.
Morin and Mofe have been married for about a decade but one person brought them together, Morin's bestfriend and Mofe's girlfriend, Keji. Upon the 20 years reunion of the '99 set of Malomo High ex-students, their marriage faces impending doom and then, Keji resurfaces at the Reunion after long years of absence. Looks are exchanged, an old flame is reignited, a marriage reaches its breaking point.
This book has gumption, such drama that would keep you on the edge of your seat and I for one, loved it. It was a never ending cycle of things happening and just when you think everything is about to get to a head, more things happen that threaten to upend the seeming peace and quiet of that universe.
This book doesn't just talk about the romance between the main characters but about a whole host of things that are inherent in our everyday society. We see how Morin's weight was such a big insecurity for her all through the book even though her husband, Mofe never complained about it but she kept comparing herself with Keji, who was her husband's first love and we know comparison is the killer of joy.
I have never seen a second chance romance handled this exhaustively. We see the constant back and forth between this particular couple. Friendship and family is questioned and we get to see how important they are in their own right.
I loved how even though the deterioration of their marriage was the crux of this story, Morin and Mofe had their own thing going for them as regards their careers and it was uplifting to see their character development.
I fear that I might exhaust space if I keep writing so I'll just leave you to read the book but, have this confidence that this is such a very good read! Adesuwa outdid herself with this book.
Follow the link below to watch my review on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/XPXZ09oOhZU?si=EjRRv...

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating and messy love story filled with love triangles, heartbreak, and redemption. Realistic characters navigate betrayal, forgiveness, and friendships in this story of imperfect love and second chances.

[Tolulope Soremekun · Rating 4 out of 5]

So far in the Malomo series, this couple stressed me out the most—like, what even?! 😅 Their story was a complete rollercoaster and had me fully hooked from start to finish. But in the end, it was so satisfying and comforting to witness a truly renewed kind of love. On to the next one… book 6!

[Lady Tamakloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is deep and quite heavy but will be back with my thoughts.

Before then I just have to commend the author for the sync between all the books in this series. Wowwww

Adesuwa sabi write well well

[L. Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this book should come with triggers. This was a marriage that was actually working on borrowed time from the very beginning. The chickens did come home to roost. And did they lay a whole farm. Realistic and poignant. I don't want to leave any spoilers. Mofe, I shake my head. Keji.... hmm, I think I will bribe the writer to write her a story.

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/4 🌟 Few minutes ago, this book was a 3.5 star read but i changed my mind and add .25/.5 stars because i actually like the marriage in trouble trope and i think this one was executed well.

it was an emotional read and did i learn a lot from this messy not-perfect characters? yeah i did.
Mofe stressed me out and at a point, i was just like “bye felicia” because wo 😭
Keji. Hmm. I don’t even want to talk but when i remember characters like hers, i remember Rashta lol

I thought i would hate this book but i actually like it… but.. a big BUT, i just couldn’t take the characters seriously (i’m so sorryyyy) so it didn’t really move me the way i thought it would.
I’m almost done with this series and nooo!!!!

[Oluwadara Odukomaiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book stressed me 😭😭 but I love how the emotions where deeply explored, marriage can be hard, full of ups and downs especially hurts after hurts keep getting swept under the carpet. Recentment and bitterness sets in and you don’t see the love of your life anymore. Very good and practical book

[Sonia's Tales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew!! People who read this book have been saying, "This book took me on a journey" and they didn't lie. Welcome to another Malomo High Reunion Series review, book 5.

This is a second chance romance story—I like this romance trope now. This book opened my eyes, once again, to the realities of marriage. Marriage/love is very complex and while reading this story, I was SCARED. I cried, cussed, yelled, awww-ed...I felt a lot of emotions and Ms. Adesuwa wrote this one so well. This is my favourite book is the series, hands down! ❤️

Mofe and Morin's love story is one with so many baggages. This is the "my best friend's ex-boyfriend is my husband" story, and it was messy!!! 😤

Morin: I like her, but she did too much, IMO. How she didn't communicate, held grudge against her husband, "uninvolved" him so many times...omo, I felt for Mofe. Although, Morin's heart was shattered too. I cried on her behalf. She's a good woman, an amazing wife and mother. 🤗 A go-getter; this woman no small at all. I guess that caused Mofe's insecurity.

Mofe: This man na werey!! You know when you're "pitying" someone, but the person doesn't pity himself, that was the situation between Mofe and I. This man stressed me oo. At one point, I enjoyed the shege he experienced. In this life, pray against village people. 😂 Regardless, Mofe is a finished man and I love it. 😚

I love how Adesuwa wrote the characters in this book, including Keji. They all had their fault and I thank God I didn't pick sides; even if I wanted to, I'd have been confused. 😂 One thing I love about this book was the resolution. I love growth and I thank God they all accepted their mistakes, even though it was so tough.

If you haven't read this book, please do. I highly recommend it.

[Amaka Azie]

A second-chance romance that takes you on an emotional rollercoaster.

This story explores heavy themes, with Morin grappling with her husband’s infidelity. However, rather than portraying it as a simple betrayal, the novel delves into the deeper marital issues that led to his actions. It’s a realistic and heartbreaking journey, and by the end, even though you may feel frustrated with both characters, you still find yourself rooting for them to reunite. To me, that’s a sign of great romance writing!

My only concern is that neither character seems to acknowledge the potential health risks associated with infidelity. As a healthcare professional, I couldn’t help but hope that the story would address sexually transmitted diseases as one of the consequences of cheating. It would have added another layer of realism to their journey.

That said, I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys drama-filled, angst-driven romance with plenty of highs and lows.

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've just finished my first book of the year, and I'm still reeling from the experience! A Renewed Kind of Love is the fifth book in the Malomo High School Series which tells the gripping story of Mofe and Morin, a couple whose 10-year marriage is put to the test when a blast from the past, Keji, appears at their school reunion, threatening to upend their relationship.This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions - from stress to anger to sadness, happy even bringing me to tears. I appreciated the vulnerability of the characters, particularly Mofe , as he broke away from traditional societal norms that expect men to be stoic and emotionless. A standout aspect of the book was its emphasis on therapy, showcasing its importance in maintaining healthy relationships. It's refreshing to see a narrative that challenges the stigma surrounding therapy in African cultures, highlighting that it's a valuable tool for personal growth and marital wellness, not just a solution for mental illness
At first, Keji's character frustrated me, but as the story unfolded, I couldn't help but sympathize with her. The pivotal moment came when she had a heart-to-heart with Morin in the car - it broke my heart. I began to understand her perspective and how she handled the pain of her past betrayal. I appreciated how the characters confronted their issues, acknowledged their hurt, and forgave each other. What resonated with me most was that they didn't rush back into their past dynamic; instead, they took the time to heal and move forward.Aize was another character who got under my skin! His body-shaming comments towards Morin were infuriating. I was waiting for Morin to give him a piece of her mind, but instead, she was consumed by guilt for using him as a rebound, which was quite amusing😂😂😂A successful relationship or marriage requires more than just love - it demands trust, effective communication, loyalty, and other essential qualities. The story of Mofe and Morin highlights the importance of open communication, as many issues could have been avoided if they had expressed their feelings more constructively. Another valuable lesson from this book is hurt people hurt people , a painful truth that resonates deep.This book was an absolute masterpiece!The writing, plot, and character development all came together seamlessly. The story's progression, from the falling to the rising action, was expertly crafted, and the conclusion was perfect.I’m eagerly awaiting, A Forever Kind of Love Keep creating magic

[Sola Ayeni · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the latest book in the Malomo High Reunion Series,
and I knew I had to read it before the end of 2024. As always, I wasn't disappointed (I never am where Adesuwa O Nwokedo is concerned!). This book is a masterclass in depicting both the unraveling and healing of a marriage. Adesuwa does an exceptional job of exposing the raw complexities of marriage-the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

At first glance, you might think you know how you'll feel-one partner is unfaithful, the other is not. But this story delves deeper, showing just how much grey exists in the breakdown of a relationship. While Mofe may have lit the match that sparked the fire, he and Morin both contributed to the escalating destruction.

The book also tackles the age-old question: Who's off-limits when it comes to dating? Are there unwritten social rules about dating your ex's friend or your friend's ex? Does it depend on how deep the friendship was? How serious the previous relationship was, or why it ended? Or are exes just off-limits, period? It's a question that the book explores in unexpected, compelling ways.

And then, let's talk about Mofe's decision-making. I have to admit, in the journey to reconciliation, I had to take several deep breaths and remind myself that Mofe is a fictional character, albeit a foolish one at times. His lack of boundary-setting, especially where Keji was concerned, ground my gears so badly! The way the book unpacks his infidelity— every deliberate yet misguided choice that led him into bed with Keji-helps to dismantle the common myth that infidelity
"just happens." It's a slow burn of poor decisions, and the story makes it clear: there's nothing accidental about it.

This book is an emotional ride, but it's also a deeply insightful one. Highly recommend!

[OLA OLA💕 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I’ve read from this author. It really opened my eyes to the reality that love alone isn’t always enough in marriages.

Mofe’s character stood out so much to me.
Watching Morin breakdown broke my heart because it reflects the reality of so many marriages today
It’s heartbreaking that it took losing her for Mofe to realize how much he loves and yearns for her.

Keji’s actions were hurtful and frustrating even though i could see they came from a place of pain.
Keji and Morin’s little reunion broke my heart a little but also didn’t sit well with me especially considering how far she went just to hurt her friend.

Morin on the other hand was a bit difficult… I wish she fought harder Instead of shutting herself down at the slightest argument/conflict. I understand choosing yourself but it felt like she didn’t give others a fair chance. Alas she’s human and her way of coping with pain made her character feel alive.

One thing that really stood out for me was the realization of how both Mofe and Morin hurt each other in different ways. The emotional weight they both carried brought more depth to the story.
Also Morin’s insecurity about her body didn’t sit well with me considering everything her body has done.

I’m glad Mofe eventually came to his senses about Keji and saw her intentions clearly

Overall I love the depth of this book carries it’s easily my favorite in the malomo series so far.

[Rayo Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mofe and Morin’s story took me on a ride I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. A marriage-in-trouble book, and I had to tell myself, “Don’t judge!!! Don’t be hasty to pick a side!!” Because honestly, both of them had a lot they needed to work on.

I loved how their marriage and struggles were explored, it wasn’t just one issue tearing them apart, but a cascade of big and small things piling up. That felt so real.

I’m also lowkey proud of myself for not judging (or picking sides) because whew, it was HARD. I’d read, stop, then sit there processing. It takes courage to face your mess head-on, and Mofe & Morin did that—even when I wasn’t sure about them anymore, even when I stopped rooting for them, they still showed bravery.

Their story is raw, emotional, dicey, and a whole lot. And Keji… regardless of what you went through, you’re a bad bitch (not in a good way). You’re not a girls’ girl, and I hated what you did.

Overall, this book was a rollercoaster of emotions and I loved every second. If you haven’t read it yet—what are you waiting for?!

[_.Oforiwaaa · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotional rollercoaster no doubt. This book highlights a central truth, all relationships can be beautiful, but relationships come with a great deal of hardwork and sometimes pain. I loved that Mofe and Morin found their way back to each other. I hate that Morin kept running away, but hey, that's just how we are are people, we handle things differently.
This book highlights an important truth, relationships come with a lot of self awareness, it comes with a lot of sacrifice and a great deal of selfless.
Who knew what they had both suppressed for so long? Loving each other yet misunderstanding and hurting each other so, the little repressed moments what like a dagger that kept inching slowly into their relationship till it was dead.
Now don't get me started on Keji?! Wow. A lot of toxicity
It can't have been easy for her I'd concede.
Overall it was a real book. I reflect wistfully wondering how many couples out there are able to survive such? I'm glad they had their happy ever after.

[Oreoluwa Ade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, my emotions were all over the place!
I had to prepare myself mentally for months before picking up this book.
I’m not a fan of the cheating trope — I actually hate it — but I decided to give this one a try, and boy, I wasn’t disappointed.

Mofe and Morin’s love was beautiful, touching, and one big rollercoaster.
Morin is such a strong woman.
Mofe… mmmh, I better keep my thoughts to myself about his character.

I love that Morin’s biggest fear ended up being what was acted on — it made the story so engaging.
I also appreciated the subtle commentary on a woman’s post-partum body.

Keji, Keji, Keji… I’m sorry about what happened to you, but you’re a wicked woman. Morin didn’t deserve what you did to her.

This book is such a reminder of how people can be hypocritical and shameless — Dwight, Mofe, Keji… I’m looking at all of you.

Fun fact, this book brought me out of my reading slump.

[Auggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wasn’t an easy read and I read it not really rooting for anyone. It took me almost a full day to gather my thoughts after finishing, and though I’m not a fan of second chance romance, this one might stay with me for a while.

Mofe and Morin’s story is layered with betrayal, a troubled marriage, forgiveness, and the complexity of second chances. Honestly, I couldn’t stand Mofe throughout the book (oh my!) and Keji because why?! Their tangled emotions, broken promises, and rekindled past made the story both frustrating and gripping.

As always, Adesuwa delivers raw emotions that pull you in whether you like it or not. There were moments I had to put the book down, but that’s exactly what made it powerful, it made me feel.

[Tochi_reads · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book because I love Adesuwa’s writing. I still enjoyed it in this book but I hated the story.

It’s one thing if there’s a miscommunication around cheating that gets cleared up before the characters end up together in a second chance book, but this was actual cheating… like planned cheating, and then living with the woman he cheated with for a year after.

I hated Mofe so much, he cared only about himself and he was a terrible dad. Never cared about his kids until it was convenient to do so or to make life harder for Morin.

Not really sure what I was expecting especially since I know I dislike second chance tropes but I know for sure that there’s nothing romantic about cheating!!!!

[Munis Bukola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I kept dropping and coming back to this. In the beginning, it was so upsetting. When they separated and started sneaking around, it was exciting. Towards the end, it got emotional. Not my favorite in the series, but beautiful nonetheless.

I read the bonus chapter, Keji’s story, and it was beautifully told. It almost makes you understand and feel sorry for her. I’m glad she found love in spite of her history.

Also, it’s funny how when a man cheats openly, moves out with his mistress, and lives with her for over a year, it’s tagged as “the devil’s temptation” and forgivable. But when the woman, in the middle of a divorce hearing, gets into a relationship and “cheats,” it suddenly becomes a shameful abomination.

Must be nice being a man…

[Oluwamayowa Ogunnaike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! I went into this book blind. I didn’t expect much from Mofe and Morin. I remeber thinking what really will there story entail. But o boy did it have depth. Hmmm! And of course Adesuwa’s third act break up, but as usual done well buy nearly sent me bonkers!
Mofe and Morin were made for each other. The hurdles of marriage though.
Let’s not talk about Keji, at some point though I felt pity for her and knew there was more to her story to be honest. Reading it gave contest and broken people actually break people.
Moral of this story though perception ans communication is top tier in marriage. Don’t assume!!

[Sandra Gboneme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adesuwa deserves all the accolades. It’s not easy connecting a 5 part series. My goodness.
I was on the edge of my seat reading this book. So many twists, turns, drama. Kilode!

It taught me a lot if I’m being honest. I have bad communication habits and this just helped me see things from a different perspective.


Lastly; I hope we all know “I am sorry “IF” I hurt you” is different from “I am sorry I hurt you”.

[Oruare Ojimadu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This emotion packed story is quite different from the others in the series. Morin and Mofe are married but their rocky relationship explodes and scatters pieces that affect so many. Betrayal, second chances, hope and renew love is packed in this book. A story that reiterates the need for proper and adequate communication and commitment.

[Mercy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very complicated and messy situation 😩
Reading this was so emotional,I went from being happy to being mad and exhausted from the back and forth
I love the book,love how the author went deep into the ugliness of Morin and Mofe’s marriage
Alot to learn from this book,I’ll definitely read it again

[Bisi Miyebi · Rating 4 out of 5]

TOUCHED MY VERY CORE!

Morin and Mofe’s story was heart wrenching and resonated with me in quite a number of ways. The story covered every single detail and was well written. I enjoyed it thoroughly and learnt from it.

[Maranatha Abutu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very heavy, realistic and captivating. It captures second-chance, broken promises and redemption.

I rolled my eyes at Morin at the beginning and then started eye-rolling Mofe. Both of them hurt each other deeply. You see that Keji? Hey God!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

[EllaVee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow!!!! This is definitely my best story in this series. This couple's journey shows how misunderstanding,pain,and life pressures can test the very foundation of a relationship. True love never dies. With a little nurture, patience,forgiveness, and commitment, love always finds new ways to bloom.

[Lawlah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book discussed a very heavy topic.

The self doubt alone was crazy.

Great penmanship from Adesuwa as always, she has way of discussing important marital topics in her books

[Pascaline · Rating 5 out of 5]

great storyline

Kept me at the edge of my seat. Wondering will they? Or won’t they? Pleased to see that despite all the issues love conquers.

[Faith Naankwat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Somehow I found this more intense than all the other books in the series. It literally had me suspend all my tasks for the day just to complete it and see how it would end, though I knew in my heart that Adesuwa the lover girl would find a way to reconnect these broken lovers, because truly they were. I gave four stars and not five because I was tensed and had my heart in my mouth all through, this is a great read by Adesuwa. I loved that they had a chance to work through their issues as they clearly were in love, broken as they were. Also the fact her friendship with Keji could not go back to what it was before was realistic, hurt as i was about what Keji passed through, it was no excuse for her behaviour(I hope I do not sound like a hypocrite as I supported her conciliation with her husband but not her friend). I cannot wait for the next book in this series!