Three Months in Accra

Love & Accra #1

by L.B. Gaines, Harper Wilde (Narrator)

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, African American Romance, Novella, Black Author, Contemporary

Audible Audio

Published November 1, 2025

Reviews

[Shawnaci Schroeder]

3/5
This story made me want to take a trip to Ghana asap!! This felt like the type of book you’d read on a lazy warm day with a glass of lemonade. You could really feel the emotions. I wish that there had been a bit more dialogue. It did feel somewhat like I was reading a journal entry vs a novel which I really loved. If you’re wanting to pick up a sweet love story, grab this one!

[Jahda]

Beautiful short story and I love the cover.

[Kameel]

A Sweet Story

[April]

Kofi & Aliza’s story was so cute and I loved their characters! When love comes unexpectedly and it’s a genuine connection, it automatically makes me swoon. Kofi’s parents pissed me off lol, but I’m glad LB Gaines took it there—as sometimes our families are not as accepting of who we choose. This was a fun, quick & emotional read that I loved and would recommend.

[Symone]

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]

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.”

[Jaleesa]

Yes to EVRRYTHING

This is a STRONG debut!!! So many emotions and feelings in 98 pages is something special. Kofi and Aliza’s journey felt so familiar. There was an emotional connection that jumped off the page but they also had an intellectual connection that was palpable as well. I especially appreciated how the author touched on feeling from both the BA and AA POV. My chest was tight for a minute but the ending was perfect. Looking forward to reading more from L.B. Gaines

[mmmkay]

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.

[Brittni]

This book was super cute. I enjoyed the story being set in Accra which was a great element to the story. Kofi and Aliza's story was a beautiful journey of self discovery and finding love when you least expect it.

Thank you NetGalley for the Arc!

[reading sprints and chai sips]

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 🥰

[kiriahsbookshelf]

4.5⭐️

Such a beautiful story and beautiful story telling!

[Kiara]

ARC Review

Aliza is an American exchange student in Ghana wanting to learn and experience a culture that is also part of her history. Kofi is a Ghanaian student under pressures from his family who was made it his mission to be Aliza’s personal tour guide.

There are so many layers to this beautiful story. It’s not just the love we witness but we also learn and understand new things. You get to experience some of what they experience with them and I love that. This connection they have is not just surface but so much deeper and rooted in culture.

Some of my favorite quotes so far:
“To be black in America is to never fully feel American. We try so hard to claim Africa as our home, but sometimes , it feels like a forced effort. Like we’re faking a connection we don’t have paperwork for.”

“To the women who left the country and found themselves. To the women who know when to let go and when to believe in love again. And to every girl who ever asked, “Could someone really love me without limits?” Yes. Yes, they can.” -the dedication of book

This novella gives a beautiful showing of blackness, black love, black culture, and black authenticity.

[Ayeley 𐙚 ·˚(editing reviews)]

⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ⭒ ⭒
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

[EricaLenise]

Three Months in ACCRA by LB Gaines was such a beautiful read. Listen, I loved this one. Even though it’s only 120 pages, it felt like a full, complete love story between Aliza and Kofi. Nothing was rushed, nothing was missing; it gave me everything I needed in a short package.

The writing was emotional in the best way, and I’ll be honest, it pulled a few feelings out of me I wasn’t expecting. The romance was heartfelt, and the way their connection unfolded left me genuinely touched.

Beautifully done, and definitely worth the read.

(4.5/5)

[Lawlah]

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.

[TwinTLC]

4⭐️: The way Kofi and Aliza story unfolds in Accra, makes you feel like you are right there along with them both! Kofi just loves Aliza all the way down and they share such beautiful intimate moments together.... such a great read! Running to dig into this second book I see with them.....

[ReadnliftwithShar]

beautiful!!

Three Months in ACCRA had me squealing and kicking my feet together! Ugh it was so beautiful. The culture, the intentionality, the purest love.. 🥲Loved Kofi!

[Cardi Blue]

Love Story

A true happy love story. A novella. Short and sweet. Im glad she stood on business because he was not defending her.

['The Book Queen']

I enjoyed this new author

More later

[Isatta]

If you loved Homegoing, don't skip this book!

L.B. Gaines transforms a simple premise into something extraordinary in Three Months in Accra. What begins as a straightforward tale of Aliza's temporary stay in Ghana evolves into a nuanced exploration of love, identity, and cultural connection that lingers long after the final page.
The novella's greatest achievement lies in Gaines' ability to weave together intimate romance with sharp social commentary. She directly examines how tourism can reduce local communities to mere spectacles for visitors, making residents feel like "artifacts" in their own homeland. A character in the book notably states, "Tourists come for our Afrocella festivals, for food conventions, they take pictures of our home and post it online like we're exhibits, and they leave just as fast." This critique adds weight to Aliza and Kofi's relationship, elevating it beyond typical vacation romance into something more meaningful and complex, because Kofi is able to acknowledge this reality and counter it with examples of how Aliza differs from this norm.
Equally compelling is Gaines' exploration of diaspora connections. The author skillfully navigates the tensions and discoveries that arise when people from different branches of the African diaspora encounter one another, bringing authenticity to conversations about belonging and identity that many authors handle clumsily. Gaines' prose consistently reinforces these diaspora connections through powerful imagery. The personification of the water is most symbolic, as Gaines writes, "The ocean followed us the whole way, always to our left, always calling." The ocean has always been the connector between the diaspora and that allusion speaks volumes.
While novellas often struggle to create lasting emotional impact, Gaines succeeds through precision rather than length. Every scene serves dual purposes: advancing the central romance while deepening our understanding of place and culture. Ghana itself becomes a vital character, rendered through prose that captures both its physical beauty and cultural complexity without falling into exotic stereotypes.
The relationship between Aliza and Kofi feels genuine because Gaines allows both characters to grow throughout their brief time together. Their connection survives not just physical distance but the more challenging barriers of different life experiences and cultural perspectives. The tension between their different worlds creates authentic conflict that tests their bond, ultimately strengthening the story's emotional resonance.
This novella will particularly appeal to readers seeking literary fiction that doesn't sacrifice emotional satisfaction for intellectual depth. Those who appreciate authors like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie or Yaa Gyasi will find similar thoughtfulness here, particularly in the nuanced handling of cultural identity and contemporary African experiences, though in a more intimate scope.
Three Months in Accra proves that meaningful literature doesn't require epic length, just careful attention to both heart and mind.

[Shauntelle (shauntellereads)]

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.

[Ari]

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.

[Vanity La’Gail]

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.

[Aggy]

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!

[alicebme]

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

eARC from Netgalley

[Kristin]

I really enjoyed this book, but whew—the pacing? Blink and suddenly we’re six weeks into the trip 😅 It moved fast, and I definitely wish certain moments had more time to breathe.

Also, narration can truly make or break a story, and this one didn’t quite hit for me. The characters are in their late teens to early twenties, but the narrator sounded much younger—like 14 at times—which pulled me out of the story, especially during the spicier scenes. On top of that, the voice didn’t match the look of the characters on the cover at all. And that cover? Absolutely stunning—honestly one of the main reasons I picked this book up in the first place after a friend recommended it. So that disconnect was a little hard to ignore.

That said, the storyline itself was super cute and emotionally charged. I was definitely invested in the characters and their journey, and overall, it was an enjoyable read. With a bit more balance in pacing and a better-aligned narration, this could’ve easily been a five-star book for me.

[Arika]

4.5 Stars - This was a quick and sweet love story that beautifully intertwined two cultures. I really appreciated that the author used her own personal experience with Ghanaian culture and also consulted with Ghanaians, which made the story feel authentic and respectful.

My only gripe is that it was too short. I wanted more time with the characters and more of their story. I was not ready for it to end.

One thing I loved was how the book showed that cultures can clash but still come together in meaningful ways. It did not shy away from differences, but it also highlighted connection and understanding.

I also loved how the author showed the beauty of Ghana and reminded readers that Africa is huge and not just one place that can be grouped together the way people often do. That perspective was refreshing and important.

Overall, this was a cute and heartfelt love story that left me wanting more.

[Jaszmin]

4.5⭐️

This book gave me all the feels. It had me ready to book a trip to Ghana just to immerse myself in the culture🇬🇭and recreate Kofi and Aliza's love story with my husband💓

Kofi and Aliza's love story was written so effortlessly—it was tender, passionate, and sexy all at once. I was completely wrapped up in their journey and felt every single emotion right alongside them. It's honestly amazing how much L.B. Gaines packed into a novella. Every chapter had purpose, and every word hit.

And listen... after reading 1:09 A.M., I already knew not to underestimate L.B. Gaines when it came to the spicy scenes. She definitely delivered. 🤭🔥

This was such a beautiful, heartfelt read, and now I can't wait to dive into Bulletproof Love.

[Kiara Andrews]

Talk about an instantaneous connection at first sight, genuine interest, intentional dating, being immersed in another culture, self discovery, outside expectations, healing, emotional depth, laughter, and sweet sweet lovemaking all wrapped in a novella. This story was absolutely beautiful. I deeply appreciate LB Gains for taking me to Ghana with this story. Each page felt alive to me. I want to explore the history and beauty of Ghana even more now! Aliza & Kofi were relatable, layered, and mature. Even though there was a slight hiccup, it was understood. It was profound. It was respected. It ended up being worth it. I enjoyed this so much and plan to read more books by LB!

[D'Linda Pearson]

No one properly prepared me for what I was about to read!!! Not only was the outside beautiful, but this woman wrote a beautiful love story that literally traveled miles and time in under 130 pages! I am unwell. I need more. I loved that there was a good balance of both characters and a forward moving plot. There was conflict and pain experienced. And character growth and resolution. I loved it!!