A true story of Cincinnati native, J Steven Osborne, who began a search for his Native American ancestry in 2021. Through a DNA test, he discovers a first cousin in Prince Edward Island, Canada – a near impossibility given his Kentucky-based heritage and family. The DNA test he had taken was intended to detail his genetic makeup but it delivered more information than he ever bargained for.
Following an arduous genealogical investigation by his wife, Becky (a part-time forensic genealogist), most of what he believed about his life and family begins to unravel. With each day and data point, previously hidden family secrets are discovered while familial losses and emotional chaos mount. His mother, whom he had known as a very religious person, unintentionally reveals elements of her past that are diametrically inconsistent with the woman he had known.
His journey descends from disbelief to loss, to anger, to resentment and shame. Only with the help of the people who are closest to him, including the family he thought he had lost, is he reassembled and finds peace in his new identity.
This life-is-stranger-than-fiction story (true and documented) has more twists than what any fiction writer would reasonably consider creating. It leaves most readers in shock and saying, “You can’t make this stuff up”.
About the Authors
J Steven & Becky Brower Osborne
Steve Osborne is a successful tech entrepreneur, sales trainer, commercial real estate investor, and professional speaker for over 30 years. His irreverent humor, witty style, and exceptional story telling skills have made him an audience favorite. He credits his life-changing NPE experience to his wife’s suggestion that he learn more about his ethnicity.
Becky Osborne is an accomplished community service leader, business executive and genealogist. It was Becky’s research and technical abilities combined with her love for genealogy that set the course for Steve’s shocking DNA discovery. Married since 1993, Steve and Becky attended Miami University and have two adult daughters.
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Reader Testimonials
“DNA Did Not Anticipate tells the unflinching no holds barred tale of the roller coaster journey that J Steven Osborne went on after a DNA test revealed that his biological father was not the man whose name was on his birth certificate. It’s an unputdownable compulsively readable masterpiece. It’s a riveting and important book: the best of its genre that I’ve read. I can’t recommend it highly enough.”
– Jo Lloyd, UK
“This memoir takes you on a wild ride as the author discovers the surprises his DNA test results reveal. The authors candor and humor make situations that are truly tragic interesting and palatable for the reader. I read it practically in one sitting. Long after you finish, it will make you ponder the power of genetics, fate, love and what really makes a family.”
– Helen Fox, Mason, OH
“DNA: Did Not Anticipate is at times raw and other times a bit self conscious. But this is largely because it’s genuine and authentic. It was written by a man who’s had his entire life flipped on its edge, and then found a way to flip it back upright. I have no doubt that others who’ve experienced similar upheavals in their lives would see themselves in this story and perhaps find hope that there’s a road to the other side.”
– Carolyn Stoll, Hamiltion, OH
“Reading DNA – Did Not Anticipate felt like sitting across from the authors, listening to their raw and unapologetic truths. The humor, depth, and vulnerability were uniquely captivating. It’s a remarkable exploration of identity and family. I can see how their family dynamics have built such tenacity and wit. It is an honest and unforgettable read.”
– Maxwell White, Mason, OH
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