A review by bookedupandbusy
The Secret Lives of the Four Wives by Lola Shoneyin

4.0

This story explores a polygamous marriage set in modern day Nigeria. Baba Segi has four wives and his latest wife Bolanle, is struggling to conceive. Each chapter is narrated by the four wives of Baba Segi and the author provides an in-depth character analysis of each wife by delving into their lives pre-marriage and exploring the dynamics of their marriage. What we find is Women deprived of opportunities and full of secrets and this marriage was the answer to security in life. Whilst reading, I instantly knew which wife was narrating as the author’s writing style for the narration of each wife is STRONG in displaying their contrasting personalities.

The story is filled with culture, comedy, gossip and rivalry but also many painful and heartbreaking moments. An enjoyable read that may change your misconceptions and stereotypes of polygamy.