Scan barcode
A review by christinabijou
Wahala by Nikki May
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- 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 took quite a lot of time to build up, but the twist at the end was good! I wish the author had spent a little less time building up the plot/drama, and paid more attention to the ending. The ending felt rushed and abrupt.
Most of the main characters are unlikeable, oblivious, and childish. I can appreciate when authors develop a few unlikeable characters because—hey, that’s life. You won’t like everyone and not everyone is good intentioned—but good God. These women were insufferable at some points. At times, I was left wondering whether any of them were actually friends with one another considering how they talked to and treated each other (and their other family/friends). Oddly, the most redeemable character seemed to get the shortest stick at the end.
However, I will credit the author for placing so much attention on the characters’ flaws. I was too busy ranting and raving over them to see the twist at the end coming. Maybe that was her plan all along, who knows. But +1 for the surprise.
One final note—throughout the book, the women made a number of colorist, racist, and xenophobic comments that I wish the author would have addressed. The anti-Blackness was teeming from them in almost every chapter.
Most of the main characters are unlikeable, oblivious, and childish. I can appreciate when authors develop a few unlikeable characters because—hey, that’s life. You won’t like everyone and not everyone is good intentioned—but good God. These women were insufferable at some points. At times, I was left wondering whether any of them were actually friends with one another considering how they talked to and treated each other (and their other family/friends). Oddly, the most redeemable character seemed to get the shortest stick at the end.
However, I will credit the author for placing so much attention on the characters’ flaws. I was too busy ranting and raving over them to see the twist at the end coming. Maybe that was her plan all along, who knows. But +1 for the surprise.
One final note—throughout the book, the women made a number of colorist, racist, and xenophobic comments that I wish the author would have addressed. The anti-Blackness was teeming from them in almost every chapter.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual harassment, Stalking, and Murder
Minor: Domestic abuse