A review by andthensarahread
Wahala by Nikki May

adventurous challenging emotional mysterious tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Plot: 4.5
Engagement: 3.75
Characters: 5
Style: 4.25
Overall Rating: 4.38/5

Review: To start out, I found some difficulty in the language differences, not only with the smattering of Nigerian words/phrases, but also the French in Boo's section, and the British English throughout. Luckily, this was not so much that it was unbearable, but it did slow me down at times. I found it very slow to build that "can't-put-it-down" feeling, but once that point in the book hit me, I finished it in a couple of hours. What this book lacked in engagement, it more than made up for in plot and characters. The characters were interesting, varied, lovable but flawed, and relatable. It ended up really tugging at the ol' heartstrings by the end and I wished I had more story after it was over! I want to know what happens next, I'm invested in these ladies!! On a personal level, I felt connected to the multiracial characters and each of their feelings regarding their heritage. The style was interesting, alternating from the perspective of each of the three main characters. It gave the reader inside knowledge of parts of the manipulation, but also kept you guessing at the motivations. Overall, I ended up enjoying this book a lot. Not at all what I expected: mystery, drama, tested friendships, tested relationships. I'm thinking of buying this book hardcopy because I liked it so much!