The Other Princess

A Novel

By: Denny S. Bryce

Narrated by: Nneka Okoye

A stunning portrait of an African princess raised in Queen Victoria’s court and adapting to life in Victorian England—based on the real-life story of a recently rediscovered historical figure, Sarah Forbes Bonetta.

With a brilliant mind and a fierce will to survive, Sarah Forbes Bonetta, a kidnapped African princess, is rescued from enslavement at seven years old and presented to Queen Victoria as a “gift.” To the Queen, the girl is an exotic trophy to be trotted out for the entertainment of the royal court and to showcase Victoria’s magnanimity. Sarah charms most of the people she meets, even those who would cast her aside. Her keen intelligence and her aptitude for languages and musical composition helps Sarah navigate the Victorian era as an outsider given insider privileges.

But embedded in Sarah’s past is her destiny. Haunted by visions of destruction and decapitations, she desperately seeks a place, a home she will never run from, never fear, a refuge from nightmares and memories of death.

From West Africa to Windsor Castle to Sierra Leone, to St. James's Palace, and the Lagos Colony, Sarah juggles the power and pitfalls of a royal upbringing as she battles racism and systematic oppression on her way to living a life worthy of a Yoruba princess.

Based on the real life of Queen Victoria’s Black goddaughter, Sarah Forbes Bonetta’s story is a sweeping saga of an African princess in Victorian England and West Africa, as she searches for a home, family, love, and identity.

©2023 Denny S. Bryce (P)2023 HarperCollins Publishers

Great Read

I really enjoyed this book. It was insightful, intriguing and kept me wanting more. I felt it gave a good historical byline.

Amazing narration

The writing is excellent and the narration was impeccable. The story was captivating and heartbreaking. I’m looking forward to another title by this author.

Story of life and love story

This is a beautiful story of new beginnings lost love and new loves of an African Princess. Through all the lost she encounter at a young age, she was able to love again.

Great read great story kept me motivated and very interested would highly recommend

The characters were very, very interesting and I’ve always loved reading about stories from this time. Would definitely recommend to anyone who likes stories from this time.

Captivating Story!

It is a well told story. Could not put it down. Inspired me to do further research.

Nice history or look into some history

I like the way it showed how thing were before we were kidnapped. How we were kings and queens and we honored and respected one another.

Facing fears

Regardless of station or circumstance, so much is decided for US. Regardless of limiting choices, to remain bold, daring, courageous and despite fears, brave enough to speak your truth, with deference and respect? of course!PHENOMENAL!

Very interesting story

I had no knowledge of Sarah Forbes Benetta prior to reading this book. Her life was very interesting. She suffered many tragic events in her life. But she also had some wonderful moments. She definitely lived up to her title.

Excellent story.

Truly enjoyed this book. Loved the ups and downs of Sara’s life. Glad she was able to live and love.

The research is quite thorough

I rather liked the storyline and research work done by the author of this beautiful story, should be told, should be known