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

5.0

Set in Nigeria, the novel follows Korede, a hospital nurse, as she helps cover up murders committed by her sister, Ayoola. As the novel begins, Ayoola has murdered her third boyfriend, which makes Korede believe that her sister is a serial killer. Meanwhile, Korede has an unrequited crush on a doctor at her hospital. Ayoola wins the affections of the doctor, causing Korede to worry that the doctor will be next. Consequentially, Korede must confront the reasons she serves an an accomplice for her sister and decide whether to turn her sister in.


This satirical slasher was such a fun read, although it became quite dark as the novel progressesd. The synopsis and cover enticed me immediately and it ended up being one of my favorite books of the year. While this one is definitely a short page-turner, there is significant depth to the novel as it considers gender, trauma, and morality. This one has been on many awards lists (rightfully so)! If you’re looking for a quick and original literary thriller to add to your pile, this is for you.