DNA - Did Not Anticipate

How One Man’s Search for His Roots Changed His Past, Future, and Definition of Family

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 which 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 listeners in shock and saying, “You can’t make this stuff up”.

©2025 J. Steven Osborne (P)2025 J. Steven Osborne

Story of courage & authenticity

It was a story that provoked all sorts of feelings, curiosity & intrigue. I enjoyed hearing this true story in the voices of the people who wrote & experienced this journey. Also interesting to know friends who were included in the story. Loved this book! Will share with others to read or listen to.