The Nature of Love + Giveaway

A doctor feeling fractured

Dr. Erykah Kennedy, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, finds herself at a crossroads in life. At forty-one, she’s achieved remarkable success in her career, yet when it comes to her love life, she feels hopeless. But when she meets Christian Gamble, a passionate wildlife conservationist, an unexpected bond forms between them despite their contrasting worlds.

A wildlife enthusiast ready for more

Chris has yet to find someone to share his adventures with, but as his friendship with Erykah starts to blossom, he begins falling for her in every way. When tragedy strikes and Erykah suddenly becomes guardian to her nieces, Chris helps her pick up the pieces.

Two hearts destined by nature

With their lives turned upside down, finding their way to a lasting love while putting their faith in God may be the biggest challenge they’ve ever faced.

The Nature of Love is a clean, African American contemporary romance with themes of friends to lovers and the healing power of love. This heartfelt happily-ever-after tale is the series finale of Shiloh’s beloved Love in the Spotlight novels.

My Review:

Eeeeeppp!!!! Excuse me while I swoon and squeal and happy dance over these characters, this series and the epic epilogue that brings everyone from all three books together in the best kind of happily ever afters!

Toni Shiloh is one of my favourite authors for a number of reasons. First, her characters. They are multi-dimensional with layered backstories that make it easy to connect with them. And feel for them! Which brings me to the second reason I love Shiloh’s books – she engages my emotions to the point I am totally invested in her characters. I’m not just reading about them I’m living their experiences right along with them. And then there’s the third reason, and perhaps the most important one – the way she weaves in significant faith threads that stir my soul and encourage my own relationship with Jesus.

And, mercy, but Erykah’s faith journey is a powerful reminder that God is always with us…especially during the times we feel most vulnerable and alone. I loved the way Chris patiently encouraged her interest in his faith, answering her questions with candid honesty. And what a prayer warrior! Simple, direct and heartfelt. Honestly, who can resist a guy like that? Erykah tried but failed miserably…eventually.

Which brings me to what I loved about the romance: it’s a slow-burn, purposeful friends to more kind of love story with lots of emotional depth. Lots of time for a reader to bond with these characters and delight in the subtle tension drawing them closer as the story progresses. Sheer romantical ecstasy! And I appreciated that both hero and heroine are on the ‘mature’ side for this genre – early forties. With successful professional lives and interesting careers.

Of course, no ‘Love in the Spotlight’ book would be complete without all the bro-bantering and texting between all three heroes. These guys are there for each other no matter what. Anything from lame joke pick-me-ups to empathetic listeners or united prayer partners, these guys do friendship right. So much fun to get glimpses into Tuck’s and Lamont’s lives as well. No worries though if you haven’t read the first two books in this series, you’ll still be able to enjoy this one as a standalone. Though I’m betting once you finish ‘The Nature of Love’, you’ll be scrambling to get your hands on ‘The Love Script’ and ‘A Run at Love’.

I preordered this book from audible and thoroughly enjoyed Dioni Michelle Collins’ narration. She has been the voice of this series through all three books. Love that continuity, especially since Collins is an amazing performer who breathes life into all these characters. Would definitely recommend the audio edition for discerning fans of this format.

29 thoughts on “The Nature of Love + Giveaway”

  1. I have been waiting and DYING to read this one! I totally agree with your assessment of Ms. Shiloh’s writing! I loved the first two in this series and just KNOW I’m going to love Chris’ story too!

    Liked by 1 person

  2. What an awesome review, Kav! This one is next on my TBR after I finish the book I’m reading. Sounds like a great read! Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!

    dianalflowers at aol dot com

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  3. When I first seen who the author was, I knew I’d have to start off with telling you amazing I thought Toni’s writing was and why. However, you said exactly the same reasons of why I love her books. Her writing – thus her books – are always totally amazing! THE NATURE OF LOVE is already on my TBR list with my great desire to read it. Your review just yanks that desire up several more levels. It sounds like the perfect story with a wonderful combination of ingredients meaning I’m sure it’s a have supplies handy for a read in one sitting story.

    Thank you so much for the amazing chance to win a copy!

    2clowns at arkansas dot net

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  4. I haven’t read book 2 yet but have this one on my list to read too. Sounds really great! Thanks for sharing your review. Sandyavery at comcast dot net

    Liked by 1 person

  5. Oh my I can see why you are dancing and jumping for joy. this sounds so swoony and wonderful. please count me in the draw. thanks for the chance quilting dash lady at comcast dot net

    Liked by 1 person

  6. I have enjoyed some Love Inspired books by Toni, so I bet I’d enjoy this one too. Of course, I’d read the whole series, lol!

    teamob4 (at) gmail (dot) com

    Liked by 1 person

  7. Great review, Kav! Toni is a favorite of mine, although I’m way behind on reading her books! This one sounds so intriguing and fun!

    whthomas13 at yahoo dot com

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