A review by birdbrainbooks
His Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie

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

4.0

This book was so good! “Elikem married me in absentia; he did not come to our wedding.” Best opening sentence I’ve read in a long time. Protagonist Afi enters an arranged marriage with a wealthy man who is involved with another woman—a woman his family disapproves of and hopes marrying Afi will shift his focus. I felt thoroughly invested from go. The pacing, especially in the first 2/3, was so well done and the setting so richly drawn. The characters all felt extremely specific and real. At times I questioned just how naive Afi was given her general knowledge of what she was stepping into—but overall a fantastic debut. I only wish we could have seen more from the side of the other woman—but I also enjoyed how that built up and paid off. Highly recommend and I will definitely be following this author!
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