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He Changed My Name
Sometimes broken roads lead to the best destinations
Eager to escape the hypocrisy of the church and build her singing career, pop sensation, Ayanti “Yanni” Effiong enters and wins The Next World Star. Apart from fulfilling her dream, her move to America offers the perfect opportunity to help young female immigrants. A cause she pursues with a passion until fame takes over. Fifteen years later, broke, dumped and fresh out of jail, she begins to regret the lifestyle and name she created for herself.
Mensah Afortey is on the brink of losing the church he put his heart and soul into for the past seven years. This years’ Valentine Day gala is his last attempt to raise money for the church. Everything is set but they need a big name to pull in donations. Just as he is about to give up, in walks “Yanni.” When he agreed for Ayanti to serve community service under his church he didn’t know she was the same person as the embattled star.
While she pays her debt to society, the last thing she wants to do is perform on a day that left a bitter taste in her mouth. But there is no denying the instant attraction between them. Before he wins her heart, Mensah must win her soul. Over time and in fellowship with the church, Ayanti comes to realize that despite what man calls her, God has the ability to change her name.
Eager to escape the hypocrisy of the church and build her singing career, pop sensation, Ayanti “Yanni” Effiong enters and wins The Next World Star. Apart from fulfilling her dream, her move to America offers the perfect opportunity to help young female immigrants. A cause she pursues with a passion until fame takes over. Fifteen years later, broke, dumped and fresh out of jail, she begins to regret the lifestyle and name she created for herself.
Mensah Afortey is on the brink of losing the church he put his heart and soul into for the past seven years. This years’ Valentine Day gala is his last attempt to raise money for the church. Everything is set but they need a big name to pull in donations. Just as he is about to give up, in walks “Yanni.” When he agreed for Ayanti to serve community service under his church he didn’t know she was the same person as the embattled star.
While she pays her debt to society, the last thing she wants to do is perform on a day that left a bitter taste in her mouth. But there is no denying the instant attraction between them. Before he wins her heart, Mensah must win her soul. Over time and in fellowship with the church, Ayanti comes to realize that despite what man calls her, God has the ability to change her name.
159 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2016
25 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Unoma Nwankwor
40 books119 followers Unoma Nwankwor writes sweet, faith-filled contemporary romances brimming with African spice. Her stories transport readers from vibrant cities in Africa to the heart of its Diaspora, weaving heartfelt tales of love, redemption, and faith that celebrate the beauty of African culture.
Readers adore her sharp banter, sizzling-but-respectful chemistry, and real, relatable struggles, all leading to the happily-ever-afters they crave. With humor, tight hugs, forehead kisses, and a touch of drama, Unoma’s books deliver the perfect mix of heart and soul.
When she’s not crafting stories from her cozy bedroom nook (with a pack of pepperoni slices and her favorite cup of java), she’s being a proud mom of two and the loving wife of her film-director husband.
Start your journey into faith, love, and African spice today! Get 7 FREE flash stories when you join her reader family at www.UnomaNwankwor.com.
Readers adore her sharp banter, sizzling-but-respectful chemistry, and real, relatable struggles, all leading to the happily-ever-afters they crave. With humor, tight hugs, forehead kisses, and a touch of drama, Unoma’s books deliver the perfect mix of heart and soul.
When she’s not crafting stories from her cozy bedroom nook (with a pack of pepperoni slices and her favorite cup of java), she’s being a proud mom of two and the loving wife of her film-director husband.
Start your journey into faith, love, and African spice today! Get 7 FREE flash stories when you join her reader family at www.UnomaNwankwor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 6, 2016
Title: He Changed My Name
Author: Unoma Nwankwor
Publisher: KevStel Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"He Changed My Name" by Unoma Nwankwor
My Thoughts
I enjoy the read even though I thought the story started out a little slow however it did pick up where I found myself seating on the edge of my seat with a story that did caught my attention. Being a 'PK' kid myself I often wonder how these stories will turn out. Yes, this one is a Christian read...Ayanti's and Mensah's story. I will say that this author did a wonderful job at bringing out the characters to the reader that one could relate to in many ways where there was showed 'trust, love, forgiveness and even redemption' in the end.I loved the scriptures that were used in the read that went so well with the story. There will be a lots of obstacles that will be presented in this read. How will they be handled? Both the heroine and hero of the story were so well developed, well portrayed and so believable and I don't want to leave out the secondary characters...which were also good. I don't want to tell too much more about the read other than to say you will have to pick up this well written read to see how well this author presents it to the readers. The African culture that was brought out in the story was beautifully done and the title definitely fits the novel's story "He Changed My Name." Would I recommend this Christian fiction romance novel? YES!
Author: Unoma Nwankwor
Publisher: KevStel Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"He Changed My Name" by Unoma Nwankwor
My Thoughts
I enjoy the read even though I thought the story started out a little slow however it did pick up where I found myself seating on the edge of my seat with a story that did caught my attention. Being a 'PK' kid myself I often wonder how these stories will turn out. Yes, this one is a Christian read...Ayanti's and Mensah's story. I will say that this author did a wonderful job at bringing out the characters to the reader that one could relate to in many ways where there was showed 'trust, love, forgiveness and even redemption' in the end.I loved the scriptures that were used in the read that went so well with the story. There will be a lots of obstacles that will be presented in this read. How will they be handled? Both the heroine and hero of the story were so well developed, well portrayed and so believable and I don't want to leave out the secondary characters...which were also good. I don't want to tell too much more about the read other than to say you will have to pick up this well written read to see how well this author presents it to the readers. The African culture that was brought out in the story was beautifully done and the title definitely fits the novel's story "He Changed My Name." Would I recommend this Christian fiction romance novel? YES!
March 22, 2016
He Changed My Name
I knew this story would be magnificent when I saw the title. I did not have to read the synopsis of the story to know I would purchase this book, the title alone captured me. Because I remembered a time when I ask God to change my name. I understood Ayanti and she needed to know that God would change her name from brokenness to wholeness, from unloved to loved and from unforgiven to forgiven. She needed to know that she did not have to earn God's love, because it is freely given and that is why I loved Mensah, because he was gentle but direct in the way he shared and show her the love of God. The way he protected her, encouraged her and desired for her to have a relationship with the Lord first before she pursued a relationship him was beautiful. Yes, I shed some tears reading this because God desires to change your name and make a covenant with you so that you will be part of His family. Take a chance and get to know Him like Ayanti did, you will not be disappointed.
I knew this story would be magnificent when I saw the title. I did not have to read the synopsis of the story to know I would purchase this book, the title alone captured me. Because I remembered a time when I ask God to change my name. I understood Ayanti and she needed to know that God would change her name from brokenness to wholeness, from unloved to loved and from unforgiven to forgiven. She needed to know that she did not have to earn God's love, because it is freely given and that is why I loved Mensah, because he was gentle but direct in the way he shared and show her the love of God. The way he protected her, encouraged her and desired for her to have a relationship with the Lord first before she pursued a relationship him was beautiful. Yes, I shed some tears reading this because God desires to change your name and make a covenant with you so that you will be part of His family. Take a chance and get to know Him like Ayanti did, you will not be disappointed.
February 17, 2016
This was a good story about a couple who had so many obstacles blocking their relationship. A lot can happen when you communicate and keep God first in your relationship. I would have love to have more of the story about Matt. I didn't like Matt in this story. Overall this is a good read.
February 24, 2016
Good Storyline
I love that the author kept the main thing the main thing - salvation in Jesus was the real love story. The human story came afterward in correct order. The play on words title is so appropriate. Good job.
I love that the author kept the main thing the main thing - salvation in Jesus was the real love story. The human story came afterward in correct order. The play on words title is so appropriate. Good job.
August 14, 2018
Powerful messages are woven seamlessly into a love story that presents on two levels-spiritual and emotional.
April 13, 2024
My vacation read! Mensah, the preacher, and Yanni the ex-con, can these two come together to accomplish something for the Lord? Yanni was raised in church and is a PK but she has stepped away from her faith, and from a relationship with family. My favorite line from the novel, “to win your soul for God, and then your heart for me”. Then he adds, “in that order”. Mensah won my heart before that line, but at that point, I was all in.
October 29, 2024
🔥 FIRE🔥❗
The author amazes me with her writing and teaching! The lessons were an admonition to me to continue to learn from my mistakes and keep my faith. Keep striving and ministering and I will keep reading!
The author amazes me with her writing and teaching! The lessons were an admonition to me to continue to learn from my mistakes and keep my faith. Keep striving and ministering and I will keep reading!
July 24, 2017
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. It was a great story and I liked how the author did not let the main characters get what they wanted. This was a book on forgiveness, mercy and second chances. I look forward to reading more by this author.
June 28, 2016
This is the 2nd book that I've read by this author. It was fantastic. In the beginning it moved slowly. But, I never wanted to put it down. While reading I was taken back to past times and situations where hypocrisies with the church stunted growth for many believers, (even me) where some have been in a hurry to get to the top that virtues and values have been compromised as well as money issues that may be pervasive in the church. Ayanti and Mensah would meet at God's appointed time and help one another in such a way that God would be glorified. Ayanti was running and Mensah needed a miracle.
He Changed My Name is a testimony for us all. When we come to the Lord in humility and in truth we get the opportunity to receive His grace. His grace sets us free to grow. Both major characters found refuge in Him. In Him there is no need to hide. There is no need to lie. There is no need to be condemned. There is also no need to try to move ahead of a God. If He brings you to it...He will bring you through it.
Wonderful read. Renewed faith. Thank you for helping to send the message: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1Peter 5:5-7)
He Changed My Name is a testimony for us all. When we come to the Lord in humility and in truth we get the opportunity to receive His grace. His grace sets us free to grow. Both major characters found refuge in Him. In Him there is no need to hide. There is no need to lie. There is no need to be condemned. There is also no need to try to move ahead of a God. If He brings you to it...He will bring you through it.
Wonderful read. Renewed faith. Thank you for helping to send the message: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1Peter 5:5-7)
February 22, 2016
Unoma Nwankwor continues to amaze me with yet another beautiful love story. In "He Changed my Name", there is a powerful example of God's Grace. Pop Star Ayanti "Yanni" must learn to trust God to order her steps after she experiences difficult times. Pastor Mensah, while dealing with his own problems, follows the unction of the Holy Spirit and directs Ayanti to the path that God has chosen for her. Ms. Nwankor effortlessly draws the reader in on this story of trust and love, forgiveness and unmerited favor. I especially enjoyed catching up with Feranmi and Alex (An Unexpected Blessing) and seeing that they are doing well.
Loved this story and look forward to reading more ........well done Unoma Nwankwor
Loved this story and look forward to reading more ........well done Unoma Nwankwor
February 17, 2016
Another Winner!
He Changed My Name is another gratifying story of love, forgiveness and redemption written by talented author Unoma
Nwankwor. The heroine, Ayanti Effiong and the hero, Pastor Mensah Afortey are memorable characters as they each strengthen their love for each other while allowing God to direct their paths.
Although the story is set in Atlanta, the author successfully punctuates the story with the African culture diaspora. The side characters (some with their own stories) are wonderful in their roles as supporters and friends of the hero and heroine.
I liked this story, and I believe you will too. I recommend it!
He Changed My Name is another gratifying story of love, forgiveness and redemption written by talented author Unoma
Nwankwor. The heroine, Ayanti Effiong and the hero, Pastor Mensah Afortey are memorable characters as they each strengthen their love for each other while allowing God to direct their paths.
Although the story is set in Atlanta, the author successfully punctuates the story with the African culture diaspora. The side characters (some with their own stories) are wonderful in their roles as supporters and friends of the hero and heroine.
I liked this story, and I believe you will too. I recommend it!
July 13, 2016
As always, Unoma Nwankwor delivers.
A story that highlights the fact that as humans we are have our insecurities but what matters most is how we choose to get beyond our fears and any perceived limitations to attain our fullest potential.
I appreciated how the vulnerabilities of the different characters was seamlessly woven into the fabric of the overall narrative. Well done!
A story that highlights the fact that as humans we are have our insecurities but what matters most is how we choose to get beyond our fears and any perceived limitations to attain our fullest potential.
I appreciated how the vulnerabilities of the different characters was seamlessly woven into the fabric of the overall narrative. Well done!
March 14, 2016
Great story
What a beautiful love story. Jesus loves us so much that he died so we might be free. His love for us is the greatest story but the love between the main characters is just a beautiful. This was a quick read.
What a beautiful love story. Jesus loves us so much that he died so we might be free. His love for us is the greatest story but the love between the main characters is just a beautiful. This was a quick read.
July 4, 2017
Great love story
I love love and when you can watch true love unfold in front of your eyes it's always beautiful. This story also shared that blessings flow and God's grace is always there for you, you have to open to it. This is a page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Enjoy!
I love love and when you can watch true love unfold in front of your eyes it's always beautiful. This story also shared that blessings flow and God's grace is always there for you, you have to open to it. This is a page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Enjoy!
June 7, 2018
You really do want to read this book.
This is my 1st book by this other and my oh my it sure is good. A well written story of Gods grace and redemption, so well executed. I kept thinking I knew what was coming next, ha ha nope. I couldn't put it down. I on by purchase a few others by this author. Oooooo this was so good.
This is my 1st book by this other and my oh my it sure is good. A well written story of Gods grace and redemption, so well executed. I kept thinking I knew what was coming next, ha ha nope. I couldn't put it down. I on by purchase a few others by this author. Oooooo this was so good.
March 7, 2023
A beautiful 2nd chance book to love , family and career!
Love the fact that with God all thing are possible , he will change your shame into glory, your test into testimony and your sadness into happiness. I loved how positive this book is, it’s a definite faith stirrer . Don’t ever think your done with life if you haven’t tried
Love the fact that with God all thing are possible , he will change your shame into glory, your test into testimony and your sadness into happiness. I loved how positive this book is, it’s a definite faith stirrer . Don’t ever think your done with life if you haven’t tried
October 2, 2020
Truth be Told!
This was such a good read. So powerful, the way the author incorporated the bible without being "preachy". It flowed and held my interest from beginning to end. I totally recommend this book.
This was such a good read. So powerful, the way the author incorporated the bible without being "preachy". It flowed and held my interest from beginning to end. I totally recommend this book.
May 16, 2018
He Changed My Name
This was a great book about God's grace, forgiveness, love, trust, friendship, betrayal, jumping to conclusions without proof and redemption.
This was a great book about God's grace, forgiveness, love, trust, friendship, betrayal, jumping to conclusions without proof and redemption.
August 9, 2019
Great!!!
This was very good!! Not at all as I expected!! Great characters and story line to keep you turning the pages!!
This was very good!! Not at all as I expected!! Great characters and story line to keep you turning the pages!!
April 4, 2016
He Changed My Name is a Beautiful Love Story about Redemption.
The author was able to relay the message of redemption without coming off as being preachy. The scriptures that she used was on point with the storyline.
The chemistry between Mensah and Ayanti was evident from the very beginning. I like that Mensah was a young handsome single Pastor who took his calling seriously. He knew that women in his congregation was willing but he did everything possible to avoid their advances and remained true to his calling. I also liked that Ayanti was very unlikely First Lady material.
The author also touched on truly forgiving others before you can move forward.
The story caught my attention from the very beginning and it allowed me to look at myself. I enjoyed reading Mensah’s and Ayanti’s story and is looking forward to reading more of Unoma Nwankwor’s work.
The author was able to relay the message of redemption without coming off as being preachy. The scriptures that she used was on point with the storyline.
The chemistry between Mensah and Ayanti was evident from the very beginning. I like that Mensah was a young handsome single Pastor who took his calling seriously. He knew that women in his congregation was willing but he did everything possible to avoid their advances and remained true to his calling. I also liked that Ayanti was very unlikely First Lady material.
The author also touched on truly forgiving others before you can move forward.
The story caught my attention from the very beginning and it allowed me to look at myself. I enjoyed reading Mensah’s and Ayanti’s story and is looking forward to reading more of Unoma Nwankwor’s work.
June 22, 2016
Yanni and Mensha are on a path to love that neither of them know is coming. I really enjoyed their journey to love. Yanni has been duped by her boyfriend and is sentenced to do community service after she goes to jail for trying to hurt him as payback. Mensah is the pastor of a church and has also been hurt by someone he loved. Mensah really wants a wife, he knows what he wants in a wife and has asked God to send her to him. The author did a great job with these two characters in showing who as Christians we fall away from God, but He loves us enough to continue giving us the things we ask for. I was really pleased that through their journey to love there was not some other woman in the church trying to tear them apart. The problems they had were of their own making and I think they each learned from their mistakes.
April 25, 2016
A captivating love story! It was gratifying, believable, and uplifting. This book recounts the journey of Pop Star Ayanti to find Jesus Christ. It was on that journey too, that she met and fell in love with Pastor Mensah. This story pulls you in from the beginning to the end with its memorable, real-life situations and characters.
I enjoyed the beautiful writing style of Author Unoma Nwanknor. Highly recommended! Grab your copy. Happy reading!
I enjoyed the beautiful writing style of Author Unoma Nwanknor. Highly recommended! Grab your copy. Happy reading!
July 21, 2016
True Love Always Wins
This is my first book by Unoma Nwankwor and it won't be my last. This is the story of Ayanti and mensah. Ayanti is singer who after pulling a left eye is sentenced to jail and community service. Her community service is at mensah church. I don't want to give anything away but their love story is one for the record books. True love always wins but when you put God in the mix it's going to be epic
This is my first book by Unoma Nwankwor and it won't be my last. This is the story of Ayanti and mensah. Ayanti is singer who after pulling a left eye is sentenced to jail and community service. Her community service is at mensah church. I don't want to give anything away but their love story is one for the record books. True love always wins but when you put God in the mix it's going to be epic
August 2, 2017
He Changed My Name
The story of Mensah Afortey and Ayanti Effiong worlds colliding was the best love story. Two different worlds meet up and there are a lot of lessons learned. A story of love, forgiveness, betrayal and the grace of God. But in the end Mensah gets Ayanti's heart.
I truly loved this story and very eager to read more from this author. I would definitely recommend this book to others. I enjoyed the music selections throughout the book.
The story of Mensah Afortey and Ayanti Effiong worlds colliding was the best love story. Two different worlds meet up and there are a lot of lessons learned. A story of love, forgiveness, betrayal and the grace of God. But in the end Mensah gets Ayanti's heart.
I truly loved this story and very eager to read more from this author. I would definitely recommend this book to others. I enjoyed the music selections throughout the book.
April 9, 2016
Unoma never ceases to amaze me with her stories. The characters draw you into their lives. Ayanti and Mensah's relationship is electric from beginning to end. The message is clear. No matter what you've done, God's grace and mercy are sufficient. You can always go home.
October 11, 2016
Great story!
This is my first book by this author. I didn't know what to expect, but I was delighted with her writing style and cultural references. I really enjoyed it! I will be reading more.
This is my first book by this author. I didn't know what to expect, but I was delighted with her writing style and cultural references. I really enjoyed it! I will be reading more.
March 2, 2016
Awesome read!
This storyline was everything and breaks down true meaning of when He changes your name. Great concept for a story!
This storyline was everything and breaks down true meaning of when He changes your name. Great concept for a story!
April 3, 2016
Excellent job
This was one of the cutest love stories I've read to date. These characters will be memorable for a while.
This was one of the cutest love stories I've read to date. These characters will be memorable for a while.
June 29, 2016
Loved the book!
Loved this story of how God works through people. His grace exemplifies through those who believe even when they lose there way!
Loved this story of how God works through people. His grace exemplifies through those who believe even when they lose there way!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews