I wanted to buy this book for a while, but when I finally went to the bookshop to get it I could not find it. So I ended up buying it for my Kindle, before going on the lovely camping vacation with my mum.

Korede is our narrator, she is a nurse in Lagos, she lives with her mother and her sister Ayoola in a lavish house built by her father. We meet her when distressed Ayoola calls for help, after killing a man. Korede by now knows the drill, this is the third time this happened and usually Ayoola claims self-defense. Korede is furious, but she remains loyal.

Ayoola is the beautiful, spoiled younger sister. She firmly believes she’s entitled to everything she wants and does not really understand Korede’s reservations. Korede, on the other hand, is the serious older sister, that feels responsible for everyone, and is secretly in love with Tade, a doctor from her hospital. Their mother, just like everyone else, is under Ayoola’s spell.

When Ayoola picks her next man, Korede’s loyalty is severely tried. The book mixes humor with dark broodings in good measures, so it is entertaining but also gives some food for thought. Especially to an only child, like me. I never regretted not having siblings and this book was yet another small argument for that.

The action is fast-paced, but saved from completely break-neck speed by Korede grappling with her conscience and trying to control Ayoola in some way. While we speed to the inevitable end, just when we think everything is obvious and every character has been revealed there is a surprise waiting for us, which adds to our fun.

It is a funny and dark book that gives a glimpse of life in Lagos and more than a glimpse of a dysfunctional family. Ayoola and Korede are like light and shade, each of them fully fleshed character, with their habits and quirks. A very enjoyable read.

If hospitals had a flag it would be white—the universal sign for surrender.

This is book #13 of my 20 Books of Summer hosted by Cathy at 746books.
See my list as it grows here.

Photo by Violetta Kaszubowska @vkphotospace.com