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A review by islesbiyana
My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

dark emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.25

“Ayoola needs me; she needs me more than I need untainted hands.”


Rating — 2.5 stars ★★★☆☆
Representation — Nigerian main and side characters
TW/CWs — Murder, Stabbing, Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Cheating, Pedophilia, Implied rape



In spite of the intrigue that the title, premise, and opening provide altogether, the overall consensus for Braithwaite's novella is that it's less of a tension-filled thriller, and more of a straightforward anecdote on sisterhood. The presumption that we could be following Korede's attempts in preventing Ayoola from killing each of her boyfriends under a Dark Comedy-esque tone was what made this one of my most anticipated reads. Unfortunately, we didn't get that, even the satirical humor flew over my head. We're left just as confused as Korede on her sister's motives with only vague implications; I was under the impression that those men were abusive pricks, however, whether on purpose or not, that was left undetailed. We really only focus on two particular guys, but I'm still left unsure on why one of them had such an impact on Korede's conscience. Meanwhile, the other's presence as an obstacle between the sisters felt a bit too… trivial. I feel like we didn't need too much of the love triangle's dramatics. Especially when the guy was quite dull and callous. I did enjoy this particular exchange, where Korede questions his love for her sister—not as a jealous admirer, but a concerned sister and colleague:


“Tade…what do you like about my sister?”

“Everything.”
“But if you had to be specific.”

“Well…she is…she is really special.”
“Okay…but what makes her special?”

“She is just so…I mean, she is beautiful and perfect. I’ve never wanted to be with someone this much.”

I rub my forehead with my fingers. He fails to point out the fact that she laughs at the silliest things and never holds a grudge. He hasn’t mentioned how quick she is to cheat at games or that she can hemstitch a skirt without even looking at her fingers. He doesn’t know her best features or her…darkest secrets. And he doesn’t seem to care.



I can still verify that My Sister, the Serial Killer is a worthwhile pick, especially if you're looking for a fast-paced and easily consumable read. While I had hoped for more complexities and development within the characters, I supposed their dynamic could have a much stronger impact on anyone with sisters, possibly with a similar relationship as Korede and Ayoola's. Just keep in mind that this is moreso a tale about protecting and prioritizing biological family above all than a crime thriller brimmed with chaos. 

Overall, a story that holds so much promise, only for the final product to offer unsatisfactory and jejune results, and still, Braithwaite manages to keep you engaged with their accessible, candid writing and solid narrative. Looking forward to seeing their growth from their debut.



“Pain has a way of sharpening your senses. / I can still remember the smell of our fear—acidic, metallic, sharper even than the smell of vomit.”
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