Overview

When tradition meets transformation, can two artisans turn competition into collaboration-and rivalry into romance? Ciera Bailey has poured her heart, her grandmother's legacy, and every penny she has into Seven Principles Boutique, her Oakland shop specializing in handcrafted Kwanzaa gifts. But five years of passion isn't enough to pay the bills, and she's one bad month away from closing her doors forever. When Oakland announces a competition to design the city's official Kwanzaa gift collection-complete with a $250,000 contract and city-wide distribution-it feels like divine intervention. This is her chance to save everything she's built and prove that handmade crafts can thrive in the modern world. There's just one problem: Kwame Asante. Kwame runs Heritage Crafts, the successful artisan cooperative that represents everything Ciera's solo operation isn't-well-funded, well-connected, and backed by a team of talented craftspeople. He's also the brother of her ex-fiancé, Jamal, and he's spent the past three years believing Ciera broke his brother's heart by choosing her business over love. Their rivalry is personal, professional, and about to get a whole lot more complicated. From Rivals to Romance is a contemporary romance that celebrates Black love, cultural heritage, and the courage it takes to believe that partnership can make us stronger rather than smaller. Perfect for readers who love heartfelt holiday romances, stories about small business owners pursuing their passions, and couples who discover that sometimes the person challenging you is exactly the person you need. Because the best traditions are the ones we build together. Themes: Kwanzaa traditions, African American heritage crafts, second chances, forced proximity, rivals to lovers, family expectations, small business romance, Oakland setting, cultural celebration, collaborative creativity Tropes: Clean romance / No spice Rivals to lovers Forced proximity Creative partnership Holiday romance Brother's ex Slow burn Community focus Professional competition

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Author Information

Barbara Howard is a mystery, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance author based in Northeast Ohio with a passion for creating stories that delve into complex relationships and hidden truths. Her works often explore themes of love, trust, and the past's influence on the present. With extensive experience as a Department of Defense/Pentagon Project Manager, KPMG Eastern Region Project Leader, and Corporate Sales Representative for Borders Books & Music, Ms. Howard brings a unique perspective to her writing. Now back in her hometown, she spends her days treasure hunting, spoiling her fur-babies, growing veggies, and plotting whodunits.

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