Three Months in ACCRA

by L.B. Gaines

Three months. One unforgettable love. A lifetime of what-ifs.

When Aliza Monroe steps off the plane in Accra, she’s ready for an adventure—but nothing prepares her for Kofi. He’s grounded, magnetic, and everything her heart didn’t know it needed. As they fall in love under Accra’s golden skies, their days are full of laughter, promise, and passion.

But as summer ends, reality hits. Cultures clash. Distance looms. And promises made under baobab trees are harder to keep across oceans.

Two years later, fate brings them back together. They're older, wiser, and maybe still in love. But is three months enough to build a forever?

Genres: Romance, Novella

114 pages, ebook

Published July 11, 2025

Reviews

[Symone · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Reciew

This is a beautiful debut novella
I enjoyed following Aliza's journey as she completed her study abroad semester and discovered love along the way. I appreciated how Kofi prioritized his desires regarding Aliza. He didn’t let his family’s expectations for his future prevent him from pursuing what he truly wanted in the end.

[Ebony Essence · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 - “A key?” I asked. He smiled. “To my chest. Just in case you ever forget again where you live.”

I loved this story. Aliza and Kofi were not only beautiful with all the feels but it got deep too. Their connection was right away and felt with every turn of the page. Yes there were some dumps and you’ll get to see why once you read. No matter what the love/chemistry was still there. I got so many highlights that just touched my heart and put a smile on my face. The way L. B. built this story and characters was so well done. The pace didn’t feel rushed at all. I got what i needed. Even though i could always use more of these two. To give us readers so much in a few pages is chefs kiss. I am truly appreciative.

When the author describes the culture in some of the scenes it felt like i was experiencing it in real time. This really makes me want to go to Accra to see the beauty with my own eyes. Around of applause for that. Oh yea, i love when chapters are given titles. Gives the book more body.

Thank you NetGalley, L. B. Gaines, and Love Letter collector press for this opportunity in exchange for my honest review.

Quotes:
-His voice dropped. “You were always going to be mine. Even if I had to hunt you to prove it.”
-“You deserve to be happy. With someone who makes your heart race, and your rules disappear.
-Kofi needed to be the man he was born to be. To rise for his family, to carry their name with pride. And I—well, I wasn’t going to beg for love in a room where I wasn’t even welcome to sit down.
-“Sometimes I think… if I stopped performing, nobody would stay.”
-“You were made for me.” I leaned forward, kissed him deeply, then whispered against his lips, “Then let me show you how I take care of what’s mine.”

[mmmkay · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5
Thank you Net-Gally for the e-ARC. Being a debut novel, I fell in love with the story from the first page. The relationship between Aliza and Kofi was organic and beautiful. Reading this novella, It felt like I was in Ghana myself. I enjoyed seeing the growth of Aliza and how she learned how to stand up for herself and what she believes in. Kofi was such a gentleman. I wish this book was longer!! it left me wanting more. I loved it, would read another one of this author's novels.

[readingsprints_and_chaisips · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC review!

I enjoyed this one. I love destination stories. Finding love when you’re over it is one of my fave tropes. Black Romance does it again 🥰

[Ayeley 𐙚 ·˚ · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ⭒ ⭒
3.25

༘࿐✰ Three Months in Accra is a cute, fast-paced novella that took me by surprise in the best way. I usually prefer stories that are more fleshed out and in-depth, so I didn’t expect much going in but this one charmed me almost immediately.

༘࿐✰ The romance, while quick to unfold, was sweet and believable enough that I didn’t mind the pacing. I genuinely liked the connection between the characters, especially how their story didn’t fall into the usual miscommunication trope. Instead, it followed a refreshing “let’s take space and maybe come back together” narrative, which felt realistic and mature.

Well, why America? Why D.C.? You could've picked anywhere-New York, L.A., Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, Miami, Boston, even Toronto.
He turned to face me fully.
"Because my Akoma lives in D.C."

༘࿐✰ I especially enjoyed experiencing Ghana through the eyes of a tourist. There was a real tenderness in how the country was portrayed from the vibrant life in Accra to the heavier, emotional moments like the scene at Elmina Castle. That part hit in a meaningful way, and I appreciated how the novella balanced light romance with historical and cultural depth.

Some people are the whole damn book.
And you don't stop reading until you find the end

༘࿐✰ That said, I did have a minor critique about the linguistic accuracy.

₰ Early in the story, the driver mentions, “We speak Twi in Accra,” which felt overly generalized. Accra is incredibly diverse. people from all over Ghana converge there, and you’ll hear more than 15 different languages on any given day.

₰ While I gave it a pass at first (maybe the driver was just referring to himself) the same statement popped up again at Makola, where it was implied that everyone was speaking Twi.

₰ Makola is a deeply local area with lots of Ga speakers, while there are twi speakers… you’re more likely to hear Ga first. It felt a little like a blanket statement that could unintentionally erase other languages


༘࿐✰ Overall, though, I had a really good time with this novella. It was enjoyable, romantic, and culturally grounded a solid read that gave me a lot more than I expected. If you’re looking for a quick story with heart, this is one worth picking up.

"A key?" I asked.
He smiled. "To my chest. Just in case you ever forget again
where you live."

Thank you Netgalley and love letter collector press for a copy of this arc all thoughts are mine

[Lawlah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC from the author through NetGalley.

This story is a beautiful journey of self-discovery, centered on Aliza and Kofi, who find themselves through the love they share. It’s a heartfelt and emotional read that explores love, growth, and healing.

I especially loved how the author wove in the history of Ghana—rich, subtle, and never overpowering the story. It added depth without distracting from the characters’ journey.

For a debut, this was impressively written, and I’m genuinely looking forward to reading more from this author.

I rate it 4 stars and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartfelt romances with cultural depth.

[Ari · Rating 4 out of 5]

You ever wanna take two characters and just shake them while yelling JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER... yeah that was this book 😂

This story had such a natural chemistry between the leads like, from the moment they met, their connection felt like it just clicked. It wasn’t just surface-level attraction either. We got to see those long, layered convos that make you fall for someone without even realizing it. Their bond felt earned, not forced, and that made their romance actually believable (and mad cute too, let’s be honest)

What I did wish was that we got a little more from the side characters. I feel like Tasha had potential to be way more involved, and even those mean girls at the beginning could’ve added more depth if we saw them pop back up. And some things felt like they wrapped up a little too quick, especially the situation with Kofi and his parents. That deserved a bit more time, and honestly, I think seeing that from his perspective would’ve elevated the emotional weight significantly. However, it is a novella so I can definitely see why a ton of detail wasn't added.

Now look… this is definitely a miscommunication trope, which y’all know is not my fave lol. And to be honest, it didn’t fully land here because the main couple had already been so open with each other. So after all those deep convos, the lack of communication kinda just felt a little off, like they suddenly forgot how to talk?

But I will say I loved the cultural tension between the characters. I loved how different cultures experience and reaction to specific themes was mentioned and how there was even a bit of history that played into the story. It added weight to things without dragging the pace.

Overall a good read, I give it 3.5 stars -- rounded up to 4 for GoodReads


Thank you NetGalley and L.B. Gaines for providing me with an ARC of this novella. This review is based from my own thoughts and reactions to this story.

[Aggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a debut novella, this book was really well written! 🙌
3 Months in Accra was such an amazing read. The story follows Aliza, a history student from America who travels to Ghana for a semester abroad at the University of Ghana. On the very day she arrives, she meets Kofi, a smoking hot and ridiculously handsome guy 😍.

Somehow, they fall in love… but not without challenges. There are tensions and unexpected threats that make you wonder: will love be worth fighting for, or will they eventually part ways?

You’ll have to read this beautiful story to find out when it’s officially published in July!
I already miss Aliza, Tasha, and Kofi so much 🥹💕
I’d rate this book a solid 4 stars!

[Shauntelle (myglamorousreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHEW! It took a while to write this review, because just thinking about this book still gives me all the feels.

Three Months in Accra is a breathtaking debut novella that captures the power of chance encounters, cultural discovery, and young love that lingers long after it ends. L.B. Gaines has crafted a beautifully immersive romance set against the vivid backdrop of Ghana's capital, and in less than 120 pages, she delivers a story that is both emotionally resonant and deeply authentic.

The story follows Aliza Monroe, a history student from the U.S. who lands in Accra for a semester abroad. On her very first night, she meets Kofi—a grounded, magnetic student and cultural ambassador at her host university. Their instant connection blooms quickly amid laughter, cultural immersion, and shared dreams under Ghana's golden skies. But as summer winds down, they face the realities of distance, familial expectations, and the tug of duty, all pressures that threaten to pull them apart. Years later, fate reunites them back in the U.S., older and wiser, but with the question lingering...can what began in three months survive a lifetime apart?

What makes this novella so special is the emotional depth packed into its compact form. Despite its brevity, Gaines creates characters who feel fully realized and a romance that is tender, passionate, and real. The chemistry between Aliza and Kofi is palpable, yet never rushed. It grows naturally, shaped by cultural contrasts, personal growth, and the ache of knowing time is limited. Their story feels both intimate and universal, a reminder of the way love can transform us even when circumstances get in the way.

Accra itself is more than a backdrop; it comes alive as a character in its own right. From bustling markets to quiet moments under the baobab trees, the setting pulses with energy and beauty, grounding the love story in a world that feels textured and real. Aliza’s journey is as much about discovering herself as it is about falling in love, and Kofi’s grounded sense of duty makes him an equally compelling counterpart.

The ending is bittersweet yet deeply satisfying, landing with emotional truth and leaving readers with a sense of longing that lingers long after the final page. Three Months in Accra is a true gem, perfectly paced, richly atmospheric, and emotionally powerful. It’s a tender ode to summer love, cultural identity, and the choices that define us. Whether you’re drawn to destination romances, stories of self-discovery, or authentic Black love, this novella is an absolute must-read. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series. I'm literally obsessed. I am shocked that this is a debut novel. Gaines is now an auto buy for me, because THIS is how you write a love story.

Thank you NetGalley and Love Letter Collector Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[alicebme · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luscious novella for all of the senses. Loved pausing to play the songs and artists referenced.

eARC from Netgalley

[Frida · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ A debut worth reading!

The best thing that can happen to you as an ARC reader is to stumble across a story that doesn’t try to scream louder than life but simply tells it—quietly, honestly, and with a pulse, you recognise. Three Months in Accra is that kind of story. It doesn’t dazzle you with high drama or fantasy. It doesn’t ask for your suspension of disbelief. It just asks you to listen. And what it offers in return is something close to truth.

This novella feels like hearing a friend recount a life-changing semester abroad. The kind of story you’d get late at night, while drinking an entire bottle of wine, with unfiltered emotion and no performance. It’s full of familiar themes—love, fear, family, identity—but what makes it stand out is its sense of place and weight of history. Accra isn't just a backdrop here. It's alive. And Gaines doesn’t gloss it up. She brings the beauty, yes, but also the ache, the pressure, the heaviness that hangs in the air when expectations tighten around you.

Kofi and Aliza are characters that feel real. Their connection is quick—yes, maybe too quick—but it’s believable in the way intense, time-limited things often are. The way they orbit each other, the way they reach and retreat, it’s tender and organic. You feel them trying. You feel them fearing. And that fear—of being not enough, of losing something before it’s even solid, of disappointing the people who built you—is a quiet thread running through everything. I loved how fear was not just a theme, but a force.

Yes, it moves fast. It has to—it’s a novella. That means some things come before they’ve had time to breathe. The relationship, for example, is more shown in broad strokes than layers. The world of Ghana, its culture, the family dynamics...they’re hinted at, not fully carved out. And that’s what left me both full and hungry. I felt so much, but I wanted more. Not in a "this wasn't enough" way, but in a please let me stay longer way.

The emotional core is strong, especially in how Gaines handles the inevitable breakup. It doesn’t feel manufactured. It feels like something that was always going to happen because of who they are and where they come from. The cultural expectations, the weight of family legacy—they’re not villains, they’re structures. And sometimes, structures don’t break. They bend you.

Still, there was one place I stumbled: Kofi’s reaction after the fallout. His voice, his emotion—what should have cracked open into something raw and revealing—felt muddled. The anger wasn’t sharp, the grief wasn’t deep. The introspection, a bit shallow. That chapter felt like it hadn’t figured itself out yet, like it didn’t quite know what Kofi was meant to feel, so it pulled back instead of pushing through.

But that doesn’t take away from what this is. It’s a heartfelt debut. Honest, touched, quietly powerful. A story about young love meeting the immovable. About what happens when two people collide in a place where nothing is neutral—not identity, not family, not the future. And in just a few pages, Gaines makes you care deeply. That’s not easy.

This could’ve easily been a 300-page novel, and I hope the next one will be! There’s space here for something much bigger. The writing has so much potential if given more room to evolve and breath. But even in its smallness, it lingers. And I, for one, would have gladly stayed for more than just three months.

*I received an ARC of this novella through NetGalley. Receiving the ARC did not influence my rating or my review in any way or form.

[Vanity La’Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
Okay so boom!—this was such a warm and culturally rich read that surprised me.

What I loved:
-There’s a glossary included and that alone made the reading experience smoother, especially as a non-Ghanaian. More books with cultural specificity need this.
-The Ghanaian culture was represented beautifully. From the food (I’m now convinced Ghanaians love mangoes) to the city’s vibe, it all felt vibrant and well-detailed.
-The FMC studying the African diaspora (key to the story), I absolutely loooooved.
As someone who’d be categorized as a Black American, I felt that part deeply—being called African-American without always knowing the connection or “roots”, it was handled with care.
-I also appreciated the convo around non-Black visitors entering historical memorial spaces like they're on vacation. That scene needed to be said.
-The twist post 3 months. Didn’t expect that. Helped round out the story.

Main gripe:
-The insta-love element.
We meet the love interest, then boom—time jump. We’re told they’ve been on multiple dates and have this connection, but we’re not brought along for the actual relationship building. I needed that depth.
*That said, I still enjoyed the romance once we were dropped back in. The chemistry and cultural backdrops made up for it.*

Final thoughts:

This was a novella, and while I wanted more (a full novel, please), the shorter format actually helped me ease into African-set stories without feeling overwhelmed. I’d recommend this to anyone wanting a sweet, meaningful romance that’s rooted in Ghanaian culture and heritage and a more empathetic approach to the talk around the African diaspora.

[Taryn Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a short and beautiful love story. What I enjoyed most about this novella was the descriptions of Accra, though I have never been the author really made me feel like I was there. I also liked the chemistry between the characters. Each interaction felt genuine. The author did a beautiful job of capturing their connection, making it easy to root for them. What stood out even more was the author portrayed each characters insecurities. It added so much depth to the story and made the characters feel real. I felt extremely connected to the female lead; her struggles with fitting in really resonated with me on a personal level. The way the author explored her insecurities was raw and honest. I also deeply sympathized with the male lead and everything he was dealing with, especially his family issues. Overall, this was a heartfelt and engaging read. I look forward to reading more by this author, a great debut.

[Fadeless Pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you L.B. Gaines for the eARC!!!!

"Three Months in Accra" pulled me in from the very beginning and kept me in a choke hold! This story grabbed my heart so completely that I found myself deliberately slowing down, savoring every moment because I simply didn't want it to end.

Gaines has an incredible talent for crafting a narrative that feels both fresh and deeply resonant. The instant connection between Kofi and Aliza, with their undeniable love at first sight vibes, was an absolute highlight for me, I was completely invested in their beautiful romance! Their journey unfolds with such warmth and genuine emotion, and the way their love blossoms against the vibrant backdrop of Accra is simply stunning.

This book demostrates L.B. Gaines' storytelling abilities, showcasing a new voice in romance that is rich with emotional honesty and cultural depth. I am genuinely excited to have discovered this author and can't wait for the next release .

[Reba Carethers · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this book. This novella was both a refreshing and nostalgic read. Having studied abroad in Ghana as an undergraduate, this intimate portrayal of Ghana and the experience flooded back to me. This book is perfect for readers who also love to travel, immerse themselves in culture, and don't mind the instalove trope in a romance. The writing is descriptive yet clear. The atmosphere evokes a flurry of summer romance. There are opportunities for improvement. The transition structure or layout was a bit confusing. There are spaces between paragraphs that indicate a time jump; however, there are also multiple areas with spacing that do not signify a time jump. There are times when a character reaction feels disproportionate to the level of detail given. Lastly, there are a few typos (hopefully corrected before publishing date). I did love how this book had a full circle moment and ended where we were first introduced to this romance. I believe this is going to be a standalone love abroad novella series, and I look forward to reading the other stories and seeing the growth in this author's writing.

[Brisace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three Months in Accra was giving love at first sight with a side of soul ties and sunsets that felt like home.

From the moment Aliza met Kofi, the spark was instant tender, magnetic, and deep like their hearts already knew each other. Their romance wasn’t rushed, just rich in chemistry, history, and heat.

Accra wasn’t just the setting it was part of their story. The culture, the monuments, the ancestors All present. And babyyy… Kofi, A walking safe space with bedroom eyes and soft hands.

If you’ve ever believed in once-in-a-lifetime love, the kind that finds you when you least expect it, Three Months in Accra will have you smiling, blushing, and maybe shedding a tear or two. This one? Whew. It’s soft, it’s emotional, and it lingers.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ✨✨✨

Whew!! This was a whirlwind! Following Aliza as she travels to Ghana to study/learn more about where she is from was touching and full of rich culture. I really enjoyed her and I love that she was also a plus size woman😍

Enter Kofi who so kindly shows her around campus and Ghana in general and they fall QUICK.

When push comes to shove and Kofi’s family steps in to dismantle his life… well let’s just say things aren’t so peachy anymore.

This is a second chance romance that is suuuuuper quick. So if you’re looking for something fast paced, deep in some areas, but pretty surface level in others, I say pick it up.

This was a good read and I’ll definitely be checking out more by the author!

Thank you NetGalley and Love Letter Collector press for the ARC!

[dnd_im_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not your typical urban romance! The culture, the unequivocal Blackness, and the feeling of Black love wafting off the pages were simply superb—with just the right amount of spice. Very classy & intellectual.

We meet two very complex characters in a setting that is both beautiful and scarred. As Aliza and Kofi get to know each other, they also come to know themselves. Guided by the city of Accra, Ghana, which helps them see what they never thought possible before.

Eager for book 2!

[Zackiyah Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

When traveling abroad for school to Ghana, Aliza meets a handsome Kofi on her first day there. Their connection made sense and wasn’t forced. It naturally flowed. Of course, with all love comes challenges that makes you think, is it worth fighting for?

I do wish that there was more from the other characters. Some parts of the book I feel like needed a little more explanation or got a little more in depth information, but overall, I rate this book a solid 4!

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Gaines I was not familiar with your game…

Novellas are very difficult to get right, but Gaines did a wonderful job with this one. This was an amazing story that beautifully captured the challenges of a cultural and potentially physical divide. As Ghanaian myself, the exploration of the culture and the way it was woven into the story was respectfully done and was such a pleasure to read. And my goodness the romance between Aliza and Kofi was too sweet to handle. I so enjoyed going on this journey with them and can’t help but miss them already. Loved this and can’t wait to read more from Gaines!

Thank you NetGalley and Love Letter Collector Press for this arc!

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the advance copy

Aliza decided to learn about where she actually came from by traveling to Accra Ghana. Her and her roommate decide to go out where see meets Kofi.

I really enjoyed the history aspect of this book where we learned the real history.

overall a good quick read! you could feel the love and romance on the page. This book made me feel all the feels

[Donna C.K · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review. Release date July 11, 2025

Three Months in Accra is an emotional, compelling, fast-paced story that reaffirms beliefs in the enduring power of love, going after what you want, and happily ever after. But between its 153 pages, author L.B. Gaines takes readers on Aliza’s journey of self discovery and personal growth that is far from linear.

When I received an advance reader copy in June, I checked the release date and thought I’ve got enough time to get to it, so I’ll read it at the start of July. One evening I decided to check out the author’s note and I won’t lie, I was hooked. I put aside what I was reading and in a couple hours I was done.

This is a perfect summer read.

If you read her note at the start of the book, L.B writes she’s “an author of emotionally messy love stories. Romance that hits like 90s R&B” and that she’s “dedicated to telling emotionally honest, character-driven love stories rooted in real life where passion meets pain and healing is hard won.” She didn’t lie.

Because of the format she chose for her debut story – a novella - everything moves quickly but I didn’t have a problem with that. I believe that love happens like this sometimes. You meet someone and know that you’ve met the one. If you’re honest with yourself you feel everything and lean into the relationship because you know then, without anything other than an inking and a whole heap of scary feelings, that it will endure.

Aliza heads to Accra for a semester abroad at the University of Ghana where she intends to experience all it has to offer. The trip isn’t just about learning about the people, the history and the culture. It is also intended to boost her confidence because at Howard, she doesn’t fit in with a lot of the students.
She wants to feel and be braver, fuller, different, like she belongs to herself. Instead of being on the periphery of everything, she wanted to be invited “into popular crowds, not tolerated” and be seen as more than the smart, responsible person. She wanted to be the “main energy character” which her late friend saw but others didn’t.

Prepared to enjoy the full experience of Ghana, she agreed to head to a night club on with her room-mate Tasha where she meets Kofi, student cultural ambassador and the heir to a family business with whom she connected instantly.

For three glorious months they were together. Lots of laughter co-existed with passion filled days and nights, connections to her ancestral roots and the promise of a long-term relationship, albeit long distance.
Kofi showed Aliza his country, not the touristy sites but the places she perhaps would not have gone, and she loved it. She found herself. She found love but then she walked away from it after overhearing a conversation without so much as a goodbye leaving a trail of heartbreak for the one man who loved her deeply.

Kofi, knowing what he wanted, worked hard in the two years they were apart to get back to Aliza, who was working in Washington, DC. A chance encounter in a ride share on the same day he landed in DC, brought them back together.

He said then, “I didn’t just come here to win her back. I came because some people are not chapters. Some people are the whole damn book. And you don’t stop reading until the end.”

Everything came tumbling out during that ride. Kofi told Aliza everything he did after she left, rebuilding the family’s company, leaving it all behind to further his education and get back to her.

I may have teared up when he told her his reason for choosing DC and that he was never letting her go again. I may also have swooned when he said, “You were always going to be mine” and “I was always going to choose you”.
Determined to be together, they worked out and they lived happily ever after. That’s what I choose to believe.

Thanks to L.B. Gaines for trusting me to read her debut novella and provide an honest review. I look forward to your next book or novella.

[Sierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
This was a nice and sweet debut novella. Aliza went to Ghana to further her studies for three months and only focus on school but that all changed one night when she went out and met Kofi.

What I truly enjoyed about this story was learning more of the culture in an African country such as Ghana. I love how a black American was able to go back to the motherland and learn more because I feel as though this is such a thing that many black Americans do not get to experience so I do appreciate that aspect being told within the story. I also loved their insta love connection, though at times I wish we would’ve gotten a little bit more of Kofi’s point of view when it came to certain things. What else I loved was the author highlighting how once you find a love the distance you’ll go to make it work i.e. being long distance.

I will say, as much as this book was nice and sweet. there were also some things that I noticed while reading. The first being that some of the page breaks kind of felt unnatural to me as a reader. Normally with page breaks were in a different scene or the mood is set differently, but in some instances, we were still within the same scene and that felt off. There were also a few spelling errors which to me I can move past, but for my fellow readers, they may be distracting and it may cause them to DNF the book. And the last thing was, I know this is a novella, but there were things that could’ve been a little bit further explained or shown more on page such as Aliza and Kofi ex exchanging numbers, Kofi’s conversation with his parents about running the business, and also more with her friend Tasha.

This was a great start for this author, and I do look forward to reading more in the future from them.

Overall rating 3.5 (rounded to 4 on Goodreads)

Thank you to Netgalley and L.B. Gaines for this ARC. Review of this book is based on my own thoughts and reactions.

[Brittany Kitchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for this ebook.

I truly enjoyed this book more than even I thought I would. I had just finished reading the Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone and was in my Ghana era. While I enjoyed the Gold Coast Dilemma, what I was missing was a love connection with someone who had a similar lived experience with their love interest.

Enter Aliza and Kofi. Aliza is a Black American student who is studying for a semester at the University of Accra. On her first night there, she runs into Kofi, a Ghanaian man, and the rest is history... or so you think. After a month of magical love, they are torn apart by responsibilities that Kofi has to take on. Only after a random reunion years later are they given a chance to see if those three months in Accra were a fluke or destiny.

What I got from this story was more than just a love story. I got connection, love, and a welcome home that many Black Americans want but are afraid will be denied to us because we "don't know where we come from." Kofi never once made Aliza feel like she didn't belong and spent all three months showing her her connection to Ghana and to him. The juxtaposition of Ghana and Kofi was really interesting to watch; the more Aliza found her connection to Accra, the more she connected she became to Kofi. It was like he was a tour guide in her present but also to her past, where her ancestors had paved the way for her return.

For a novella, I felt like I learned so much in such a short story. This was a very important story for me, and I loved the care that was taken to show the similarities between the African and Black American cultures instead of the typical differences that so often plague our worlds.

[Jasmine Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.2/5

A short yet beautifully descriptive college romance novella set in Ghana. Our main character, Aliza, is studying abroad at the University of Ghana hoping to experience life in a new way vastly different from the normal rigor of academia. Her first night in Accra becomes the start of a transformational shift as she meets Kofi, a charismatic and attractive cultural ambassador whose presence is grounding yet electrifying. What follows is an emotionally charged connection where readers are catapulted into the non-tourism sector of Ghana filled with rich culture, expansive marketplaces, beautiful landscapes and a blossoming romance charged with chemistry.

Although compact,this story contains various themes such as overcoming grief, pursuing normalcy, and pushing past socioeconomic inefficiencies while presenting a facade of nonchalance and perfection. Kofi’s character is the best aspect of the novel as he is perceived as nearly flawless yet demonstrates normal human vulnerabilities particularly when faced with familial drama. His calming resolve and captivation helps Aliza confront her own vulnerabilities/ insecurities providing her with great character growth and strength. The one drawback (to me) is this novella is an open door romance with two to three moderately explicit scenes, but they can be easily skipped without losing the chemistry between Kofi and Aliza.

A bonus and personal highlight for me was this novella was covered in my book club where the author was present. A unique experience where we received first hand insight from the author on her thought process and personal experiences in Ghana that helped transform memories into a beautiful tale.

[Maddison · Rating 4 out of 5]

You ever wanna take two characters and just shake them while yelling talk to each other it fix everything.. yeaaa that was me cause I don’t get the miscommunication trope especially In novella

3 Months in Accra was such an amazing read. The story follows Aliza, a history student from America who travels to Ghana for a semester abroad at the University of Ghana.
On the very day she arrives, she meets Kofi. I enjoyed this element of the story as a college student myself because it shows the value of study abroad not the fall in love part but the seeing new experiences and learning about other cultures and people you would never see in your neck of the woods

What I did wish was that we got a little more from the side characters. I feel like Tasha had potential to be way more involved.And some things felt like they wrapped up a little too quick, especially the situation with Kofi and his parents. That deserved a bit more time, and honestly, I think seeing that from his perspective would've elevated the emotional weight significantly. However, it is a novella so I can definitely see why a ton of detail wasn't added.

I will say though the way the page breaks felt off I was not sure who POV I was supposed to be reading from or who mind I am in. For me it throw me off from reading and I could see it putting other readers off as well. But other then that this was a beautiful debut book and I can’t wait to see what next from this author🥰🥰

Thank you to Netgalley and L.B. Gaines for this ARC💕✨

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
📚 Book Title: Three Months in ACCRA
✍🏽Author: L. B. Gaines

Format: eARC = 📱

⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5

🌶 Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶 = Mild/Medium

🕑Quick Take:
Aliza Monroe is set to spend a semester abroad in Accra at the University of Ghana as an Africana Studies major with a focus on African Diaspora Memory and Identity from an HBCU. She is Type A but wants to engage in being a bit more fun and free; then she meets Kofi.

Kofi is in his final year at the University of Ghana, majoring in Finance. He is slated to take over his family’s reservoir and water engineering firm. Specifically, he is a Cultural Ambassador for Aliza’s study abroad program.

Together, they share a sweet, swoony, tender love story that is challenged by individual dreams and family expectations.

💕What I Loved:
Can I emphasize just how sweet and swoony this love story is? The descriptive writing created warm and vibrant vibes that engaged my senses and sparked my imagination. Although the story is primarily told from Aliza’s point of view, the single chapter from Kofi’s perspective in “Rewind” was a perfect addition! Overall, it was a quick read that I completed in one sitting.

Tropes:
- Instant Love
- Forbidden Love
- Summer Love
- Second Chance

⚠️ Heads Up (Trigger/Content Warnings):
- Grief and Loss
- Body Shaming

💭Final Thoughts:
This novella was short yet satisfying, leaving you content without yearning for more. I highly recommend checking out Three Months in ACCRA, which will be released on July 11, 2025.

Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing Media for this advanced reader’s copy.

[Shica · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Title: Three Months in ACCRA
Stamped: A Love Story Collection (Book 1)
Author: L. B. Gaines


If you're looking for a love story that pulls you in with every page, Three Months in ACCRA is exactly the book you need! Aliza arrives in Ghana for a semester abroad, hoping to connect with her roots—but what she discovers is something far deeper: a man who sees her fully, both the parts she’s embraced and the ones she’s still uncovering. Kofi, a native Ghanaian, is carving out his own path under the weight of family expectations. Though he’s promised to someone else and his family disapproves of this unexpected connection, he finds himself drawn to Aliza—she’s both the escape he longs for and the belonging he’s never quite had.

For three months, it’s pure magic. Laughter, late-night talks, deep conversations, and all the butterflies. But then reality comes knocking. Different worlds, different expectations, and a painful goodbye that neither of them really wanted.

Fast-forward two years and another chance encounter begins their love story picks up right where they left it.

Big thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC! This debut novella was so well done. The writing transported me—I truly felt like I was in Ghana. Their personal growth was beautiful to witness. Honestly, I didn’t want it to end. I would absolutely read whatever L.B. Gaines writes next.


📖 Releases July 11 on Amazon


#LBGaines
#ARCReview
#ThreeMonthsinAccra
#NetGalley
#Bookstagram

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three Months in Accra by L.B. Gaines is an intimate love story following Aliza, a study abroad student from America, and Kofi, a Ghanaian student who changes Aliza’s life from day one. The pair meet and fall in love during Aliza’s three month stay in Ghana. Kofi plays a huge role in helping Aliza heal ancestral trauma being an African American whose identity and culture was stolen centuries ago.

L.B. Gaines does an amazing job at storytelling, with metaphors on almost page that makes this novella read like poetry at times. Ghana is described so beautifully, I learned so much about this amazing culture, while simultaneously feeling the emotions of the main characters. The glossary at the beginning of the book was very helpful to my understanding of different aspects of Ghana’s culture.

This was such a quick read, with just 120 pages! I was able to read in just a few hours. I love my romance books with spice and it was definitely there! It wasn’t the entire plot, which I appreciated. But there are several scenes with descriptive language.

The chemistry between the main characters was great! Kofi is the main of my dreams! Aliza as a character was frustrating at times because of a decision she makes to protect her heart. I wish she handled things differently.

Overall I really enjoyed this book! Thank you Love Letter Collective Press for an advance read of this novella via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Tanesha Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Omg thank you so much to Netgalley and Love Letter Collector Press for this short and sweet novella! Apparently, this is L.B Gaines' DEBUT?? OMG - what a beautiful story to start a writing career with!

One sentence summary - Aliza arrives to Accra, Ghana, where she has a chance encounter with Kofi and her entire world shifts.

Kofi is steadfast, while Aliza is anxiously put together. Listen, we love a man who commits to what he wants and goes after it intentionally. You can totally read this novella in one sitting, and I fully encourage you to! I loved the rich history that was interwoven throughout the story as well as the romance and care that both Kofi and Aliza show towards each other. Not only does Aliza find her voice and is a strong FMC, but we also get the distinct pleasure of watching her grow.

I'm already missing the characters. I would recommend this book for folks who love destination romances, Black folks who care about connecting with the motherland, Girlies who are anxiously put together, students who are looking to study aboard and change their lives, and women who love a steadfast and intentional MMC.