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Tag: The Shadow King

24 Apr

Drama Fiction Historical

WOMEN AT WAR: A Review of The Shadow King by Maaza Mengiste

by Obiageriaku

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“These aren’t the days to pretend you’re only a wife or a sister or a mother”, she says. We’re are more than this – Who…

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✨ Traveling the world, one page at a time!

I’m not quite sure what I was expecting when I p

I’m not quite sure what I was expecting when I picked up Days Come and Go by Hemley Boum 🇨🇲, but it definitely wasn’t this gut-wrenching, beautifully complex story. The book follows three Cameroonian women—Anna, an older woman reflecting on her life of love and loss; Abi, her daughter trying to find a balance between tradition and independence; and Tina, a young woman who gets pulled into radical extremism, giving the reader an intense look at the impact of groups like Boko Haram.

What I loved about this book is how Boum captures the depth of friendship. The bond between Tina and her childhood best friends felt so real—those messy, beautiful moments that make up a friendship, and how, despite everything, those connections stay with you. I think that’s one of the strongest parts of the book: how our early relationships shape us, even when life pulls us in all kinds of directions.

The Boko Haram aspect of the story is heavy, but it’s handled in such a human way. Tina’s journey into extremism really made me reflect on how complex the choices are for young women in these situations. It’s a reminder of the devastating effects of violence, manipulation, and loss, and how easily someone can be drawn into something they don’t fully understand. It was heartbreaking but necessary, showing the harsh reality of what many young women face.

Boum’s writing is so effortless, pulling you into the lives of these women, exploring their struggles, their hopes, and how they fight to hold onto themselves amid the chaos. If you’re into books that dive deep into family dynamics, friendship, and the tough decisions women have to make, Days Come and Go is a must-read.

#womensfiction #readafrican

Dear @chimamanda_adichie I don’t even know wher

Dear @chimamanda_adichie

I don’t even know where to begin because Dream Count 🇳🇬 left me speechless. I felt seen in ways I wasn’t ready for. As a 31-year-old single woman, I always thought by now I’d have the baby, the family, the life I imagined for myself. But here I am, still waiting, still wondering. And this book—it was like looking into a mirror I didn’t know I needed.

The women in this story felt so real, so familiar. I saw myself in their hopes, in their quiet grief, in the way they tried to make peace with the life they had versus the life they once dreamed of. The way you captured longing—the kind we don’t always say out loud—hit me in the chest. It wasn’t just about waiting for a baby, for a partner, for a certain kind of life. It was about all the ways women are expected to measure themselves by time, by milestones, by things we can’t always control.

This book didn’t just tell a story—it held me. It forced me to sit with parts of myself I had been avoiding, to ask hard questions about what I want and why. It was beautiful and painful and healing all at once.

And for that, I just want to say thank you.

#dreamcount #readnigerian
#chimamandangoziadichie

Book Review: Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubges

Book Review: Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubgeshig Rice 🇨🇦

Okay, so this was my first time reading a book written by an Indigenous author and about Indigenous people, and I have to say—I was seriously impressed. The writing was smooth, the characters felt real, and the whole thing was just so good.

We follow Evan Whitesky, a young Anishinaabe man, as his Northern community slowly loses power and communication with the outside world. At first, life doesn’t change too much—they know how to survive off the land—but as winter deepens and desperation sets in, things start getting tense. What really hit me was how grounded it felt. The apocalypse isn’t some wild explosion-filled disaster; it’s slow, creeping, and disturbingly realistic.

Also, I have to shout out Aileen (Evan’s partner), because I loved how strong and steady she was throughout the story. And then there’s Justin Scott… let’s just say, every story needs a character you love to hate.

And now I just found out there’s a Book 2 (Moon of the Turning Leaves), so naturally, I’m scrambling to get my hands on it. If you’re into books that blend survival, culture, and tension in a quiet but powerful way, I highly recommend this one. It left me thinking long after I turned the last page.

#readcanadian
#bookrecommendations #bookreview

February 2025 - "The more you seek the uncomfortab

February 2025 - "The more you seek the uncomfortable, the more you will become comfortable."

📸 @reeljournal_photos_videos

2024 in books: Quietly turning pages, even when MI

2024 in books: Quietly turning pages, even when MIA. 📚✨

What’s the best book you’ve read this year? 📚 Drop your recommendations below—I’m always looking to add to my TBR!"

#Books #bookrecommendations #read #readers

📚✨ Unboxing Alert! ✨📚 Big thanks to @p

📚✨ Unboxing Alert! ✨📚

Big thanks to @penguinrandomhouse for sending over "The Road to the Country" by Chigozie Obioma! 🙌

Set in Nigeria in the late 1960s, this story follows Kunle, a shy, bookish student burdened by guilt, who embarks on a rescue mission for his missing brother amid a raging civil war. 🌍💥

As Kunle joins the Biafran army and navigates the prophecies of a local Seer, he embarks on a journey of redemption and unimaginable courage. Myth meets realism in this powerful novel that promises not to disappoint 🎢❤️

Who else is excited to dive into this? What book set in a historical conflict has left you speechless? 🤔📖

The Road to the Country by Chigozie Obioma is out on June 4

#unbox #unboxing #bookrecommendations #bookstagram #readafrican #BookLovers #Unboxing #TheRoadToTheCountry #ChigozieObioma #MustRead #HistoricalFiction

Help a sister out. How do you say blurb🤣😂😅

Here's to embracing the awkwardness 🍷.
PS. Content Creators, I owe you a chilled bottle of beer.

#bloopers #bookreview #Unboxing #unbox #bookrecommendations #bookreview

A Book Review Second Class Citizen tells of a you

A Book Review

Second Class Citizen tells of a young, ambitious, but naive woman who is stuck in the limiting constraints of her culture- the idea that women are not really beings of their own but rather baby-making machines to be used, but never seen or valued beyond their capacity to churn out the only beings in the universe that have any value: men.

At first, Adah is kept from pursuing her education, but she's not one to be held back for long. She finally gets her chance to chase her dreams. But just when things seem to be on track, she ends up with the worst luck imaginable: marrying a guy who's basically the poster child for bad decisions and self-centeredness.

What follows is a relentless loop of infuriating male toxicity that's enough to make anyone see red.

Thoughts

This story shines a spotlight on an outdated patriarchal mindset rooted in Nigerian culture, which sadly still persists today. It's one thing to acknowledge traditional gender roles, but it's quite another to witness the destructive behavior of men who use their perceived superiority to oppress and control women. It's a stark reminder of the deep-seated insecurities and emptiness that drive such actions. Frankly, it's enough to make you wish these individuals had never entered the world in the first place.

"Second Class Citizen" is like a heartfelt letter to women everywhere, acknowledging the struggles so many have faced but often kept hidden. It's a nod to those untold stories that resonate deeply with so many of us. But it's not all sorrow and pain; it's also a cheer for our strength and resilience.

It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to stand tall and weather the storm. And for those who try to bring us down with their negativity, it's a promise that our voices will rise like a gentle breeze, growing into a powerful hurricane of change that they won't be able to ignore.

#ReadRepublic
#AnAfricanFeministManifesto

Let the unboxing begin 📦✨

They had me at F•E•M•I•N•I•S•T

I'm so excited to dive into my @republicjournal package. 📚💥 This edition's cover is giving me LIFE! 🙌
I can't wait to revisit 'Second Class Citizen' by Buchi Emecheta after all these years. Can you believe that it's been 50 years since it was first published 😲?

Let's see if it hits differently this time 💭

#Unboxing #bookish #FeministReads #buchiemecheta #unbox #readrepublic #anafricanfeministmanifesto

"Yes, I am your daughter," I spat the words back a

"Yes, I am your daughter," I spat the words back at her. "And I will be the Alaafin's wife. And one day, I will be someone's mother. But when will I get to be a person?"

I was gifted this book from @forgereads , and I've got to give a shout out to the awesome O.O. Sangoyomi for this wild literary adventure. Where do I even begin with this book? This book? Oh, it's like a rollercoaster of feels—fantastic, beautiful, and totally heart-wrenching.

Picture this: Ododo, our main character, is like a shining star in a sky full of dull clouds. She's innocent, grounded, and stuck in a tough spot as a blacksmith living in a guild where folks are about as welcoming as a porcupine at a balloon party.

But wait, here's where it gets interesting! Ododo isn't your average blacksmith. Nope, she's got skills that could make even the toughest critic do a double-take. She crafts these stunning golden flowers that are like something out of a fairy tale.

Now, cue the dramatic music because things take a wild turn when she catches the eye of a mysterious homeless wanderer. Yep, Ododo's golden flowers and sweet tunes cast a spell on this guy, and before you know it, her life takes a sharp left turn.

Next thing you know, Ododo's kidnapped and whisked away to Sangote. There she is prepared to wed the Alaafin of the empire, who is a king of Yorubaland. But when she sees him, she remembers that he is the same person she gave her flower to. So in court, she is put through one hell of a life. She goes from an innocent and trusting person to a ruthless calculating queen who may change the future of the whole land and the future of blacksmiths.

Believe me when I say that 2200 characters are too little to pack all the drama that this book contains. You'll just have to experience it for yourselves when it drops on July 2nd. An easy 4.5/ 5

📚A Book Review 📚These Letters End in Tears b

📚A Book Review 📚These Letters End in Tears by Musih Tedji Xaviere

How I thought that I would get through a book called These Letters End in Tears unscathed is beyond me. This story really touched me deeply. It reminded me of two books - The Death of Vivek Oji and a short story titled God's Children Are Little Broken Things, both equally devastating.

These Letters End in Tears centers around a Bessem, a Christian who lives in Cameroon and faces struggles because she's a lesbian in a place where it's not accepted. She meets Fatima, a Muslim who plays soccer with boys and dresses differently to fit in, adding layers of complexity to her journey.

The story jumps around in time, sometimes in the present and sometimes in the past as Bessem recalls memories and writes letters to Fatima. Each of these letters ends with a sense of sadness. While it may seem confusing at first, this style of storytelling adds a special depth to the narrative, allowing readers to truly empathise with Bessem's emotions – her sadness, her longing, and her hope even as the search for Fatima seems futile.

Reading this book evoked a range of emotions in me. It stirred up feelings of frustration and sadness, much like The Death of Vivek Oji did. It's disheartening to see people unable to express themselves freely. Bessem's letters struck a chord with me, and by the end of the book, I found myself shedding tears alongside her. If you enjoy stories that tug at your heartstrings and make you reflect on humanity and the human experience, I highly recommend giving this book a read.

Thank you to @catapult for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

#bookrecommendations
#bookreview
#books
#sapphicreads
#read

📚Book Review - When Trying to Return Home and o

📚Book Review - When Trying to Return Home and other Stories by Jennifer Maritza McCauley
Alright, let's dive a little deeper into the magic of "When Trying to Return Home"

Imagine this: you're amidst the chaos of moving to a new country—emotions high, uncertainty in the air, and the loneliness... OMG, the loneliness😢. It's in this whirlwind of change that McCauley's debut collection lands in your hands like a lifeline (Thank you @catapult ), offering solace and reflection amidst the upheaval

First things first, McCauley's writing style? It's like a warm hug on a chilly day—familiar, comforting, and oh-so-inviting. She has this incredible talent for crafting stories that feel like snapshots of life, capturing the essence of human emotion with every word. As you flip through the pages, you'll find yourself transported to bustling streets, quiet neighborhoods, and everything in between, all through the lens of Black American and Afro-Latino experiences.

What struck me most about this collection is its ability to explore the concept of home in all its complexity. Each story is a journey—a quest to understand where we come from, where we belong, and how we navigate the spaces in between. Whether it's a mother fighting against the odds to reunite her family or a young student grappling with identity in a new environment, McCauley's characters resonate with authenticity and depth.

But it's not just the characters that make this collection shine—it's the themes, the emotions, the moments of quiet introspection that linger long after the final page is turned. As I find myself sorting through present reality, I couldn't help but see reflections of my own journey in the pages of this book. Each story felt like a mirror, reflecting back on my own hopes, fears, and uncertainties about what home truly means.
In a world filled with constant change and uncertainty, this book serves as a reminder that home isn't just a place—it's a feeling, a connection, or a sense of belonging that transcends physical boundaries. So if you find yourself in the midst of a move or simply seeking solace in the pages of a good book, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of McCauley's debut

📚 *Book Review: Promise Boys by Nick Brooks* 📚

💥 Prepare for a thrilling ride with "Promise Boys," a dark academia mystery that keeps you guessing until the end! 💥

🌟 This clever murder mystery follows three boys who become suspects in their principal's shocking murder. J.B., Ramón, and Trey must join forces to uncover the real killer and clear their names.

🔍 I couldn't put this book down! Nick Brooks' engaging writing style pulls you in from the first page. The mixed media format adds an exciting twist.

🔎 The protagonists, from diverse backgrounds, are well-developed and easy to root for. The setting of Urban Promise Prep school feels realistic and relatable.

⚠️ While enjoyable, a significant portion is exposition. The latter half dives into the detective work, but manage expectations—it's more of a murder mystery than a thriller.

✨ "Promise Boys" is a highly enjoyable read, appealing to dark academia and mystery fans. Engaging plot, relatable characters, and a captivating setting make it a gem.

🎬 This story has potential for an HBO limited series! Dive into the world of "Promise Boys" and be immersed in the mystery.

📖 Have you read "Promise Boys" yet? Share your thoughts! 👇✨

There may or may not have been chocolates in my bo

There may or may not have been chocolates in my box 🙈🍫🤣

Thank you @headofzeus for my Advanced Reader Copy of Everything is not Enough by @lolaakinmade .

I can't wait to dive right in 🤓📚

#everythingisnotenough

Tell a friend to tell a friend.....She's back 📢

Tell a friend to tell a friend.....She's back 📢📢

Guess what, everyone? The moment we've all been wa

Guess what, everyone? The moment we've all been waiting for has finally arrived! *Drumroll, please* 🥁 My very first audiobook design is here, and I couldn't be more thrilled! When Genti Media approached me for this incredible project, I was jumping with excitement!

Let me start by saying, can you believe there's a company like this in Nigeria? Yeah, I couldn't either! For all you African literature and audiobook enthusiasts out there, you know the struggle of listening to your favorite African stories with some weird mishmash accent. Ugh, so frustrating, right? 🙄 But fear not, because Genti Media has come to the rescue! They are the ultimate destination for exclusive African stories, narrated in authentic African languages, and brought to life by talented African voices. How awesome is that? It was a total no-brainer for me to jump onboard this fantastic journey!

Introducing "Chronicles of a Runs Girl": Prepare yourselves for a wild ride with this captivating 29-part series that follows Amaka, a runs girl living in Lagos, as she embarks on her thrilling encounters with a colorful cast of characters and finds herself in all sorts of intriguing situations. Brace yourselves for a hilarious and twisted tale that explores the true essence of resilience, survival, romance, and the unexpected joys that can be found amidst life's challenges. The incredible story was written by the amazing @leyeadenle and brought to life by the talented voice of @elmambadiweofficial. Believe me, this is one audiobook you don't want to miss!

Working on this design was an absolute blast, and I poured my heart and soul into it. Now, it's time for you to experience the magic! I hope you'll fall head over heels in love with it, just like I did. So, without further ado, grab your headphones and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of "Chronicles of a Runs Girl."

Psst! Here's the most exciting part: It's now available exclusively on The Genti App. Hurry up, folks, and dive into this epic adventure today! 📚💫 @gentimedia

🌟✨ Calling all book lovers! I've got an extra

🌟✨ Calling all book lovers! I've got an extraordinary historical fiction recommendation for you: 'Dust Child' by Nguyen Phan Que Mai. Prepare to be transported to a different time and place while uncovering a hidden part of history. Let's dive in! 🏞️📖

💥💔 'Dust Child' takes us on a journey through the lives of Amerasians, the children born to Vietnamese women and American GIs during the Vietnam War. Based on meticulous research, author Nguyen Phan Que Mai weaves a gripping and enlightening tale that will leave you wanting more.

🌺📚 The story unfolds through three captivating perspectives: an American GI and his wife returning to Vietnam years after the war, two sisters from the countryside who become "bar girls" for American soldiers, and a young Amerasian man searching for his biological American father. Through their intertwined narratives, we witness the impact of war on their lives and the choices they must confront.

🌍💡 'Dust Child' not only sheds light on an overlooked part of history but also paints a vivid picture of Vietnam's rich culture and traditions. The author's personal connection to the story adds a layer of depth and authenticity that will captivate your heart.

🔥📖 This book is a must-read for fans of stories that uncover hidden historical events, offer multiple timelines and diverse character perspectives, and immerse readers in vibrant settings. If you enjoyed Min Jin Lee's 'Pachinko' or Yaa Gyasi's 'Homegoing,' you're in for a treat with 'Dust Child.'

✨💫 Prepare to be moved, inspired, and challenged as you delve into the pages of 'Dust Child.' Nguyen Phan Que Mai's beautiful prose, suspenseful storytelling, and exploration of love and forgiveness.

So, my bookish friends, grab a copy of 'Dust Child' because This book deserves a prime spot on your reading list! Happy reading! 📚❤️

#read #historicalfiction #readmorebooks #bookrecommendations

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