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Akwaugo
"Vows signed with blood. Witnessed by the deities. Death the only way out."
For Tobe, spending the Christmas season in his hometown after many years isn't bad at all. In fact, it's turning out to be more than perfect– until he crosses path with the fairest lady he has ever seen. But there is a problem. She has been taken.
Falling in love isn't part of the deal when Akwaugo seeks the help of a stranger from the big city to save herself from shame. However, one intimate encounter with him stirs up emotions that are capable of destroying everything she's built all these years.
When fate makes the forbidden desirable, gods, tradition and men must come to a compromise.
For Tobe, spending the Christmas season in his hometown after many years isn't bad at all. In fact, it's turning out to be more than perfect– until he crosses path with the fairest lady he has ever seen. But there is a problem. She has been taken.
Falling in love isn't part of the deal when Akwaugo seeks the help of a stranger from the big city to save herself from shame. However, one intimate encounter with him stirs up emotions that are capable of destroying everything she's built all these years.
When fate makes the forbidden desirable, gods, tradition and men must come to a compromise.
327 pages, Paperback
Published November 29, 2022
18 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 21, 2022
This story!
I wish I wrote it (it's good good good!) Deserves awards and study.
Deep with plot, characters and story.
Tobe and Akwaugo happening was an abomination but a beautiful needful abomination. Loved the character arcs and growth. I felt like hitting AK sometimes but she was as human as she could be.
This story deserves all attention because it focuses on core traditions, society and the heart.
Loved it! My best from the author.
I wish I wrote it (it's good good good!) Deserves awards and study.
Deep with plot, characters and story.
Tobe and Akwaugo happening was an abomination but a beautiful needful abomination. Loved the character arcs and growth. I felt like hitting AK sometimes but she was as human as she could be.
This story deserves all attention because it focuses on core traditions, society and the heart.
Loved it! My best from the author.
June 8, 2023
3.5 Stars.
I am a fan of old school Nollywood films and this was very reminiscent of those in style and plot- the Cinderella Story kind with the city boy with lots of money and power sort of rescuing the village girl with limited power and agency despite her beauty and brains that’s stuck in an untenable situation. This was more or less Tobe and Akwaugo’s story and I would say if you like that era of Nigerian movies, you’ll like this book.
Personally, I really enjoyed this. I thought the plot was interesting and different and brought in a lot of Igbo tradition and contemporary culture. My feminist self cringed at the narratives of ownership around bride price but this was very well and authentically aligned with prevailing cultural narratives around it and I appreciated it in the context of the authentically Igbo story the author wanted to tell. I loved that this was deeply embedded in Nnewi and the rich setting was germane to the story and almost given character status, so that this was not a romance that could have been set anywhere else in the world. I liked the secondary characters enough that I wish we had seen even more of them and that they had had a greater role in the story. I think the story was told well and in a way that was compelling despite it being centered on romance’s lease favourite trope OW/OM / toxic love triangle… even if I wouldn’t quite say it was a LOVE triangle because from the beginning you are not rooting for the evil Mezie. That said, this might not be for the strongest sticklers who really don’t like the love triangle OW/OM trope. Personally, my issue with it wasn’t so much the infidelity angle (because her husband already wrote himself out of being a contender for the reader from page 1 with his demands of her), but the stagnation and passivity from the heroine and how the story gets stuck in that phase for a bit.
Despite all the positives, there were a few issues with this book for me- I think the most obvious thing that runs across is the need for a better proofreading edit- there were several typos, homophones, issues with tenses, and malapropisms that were sometimes bad enough that the meaning of the sentence was lost. I think this book deserves a better edit than that. Character-wise, I know it speaks to some women’s realities and Akwaugo is very much in that Efuru archetype of a good, African wife who bears all things with dignity and silence, but I wish she had a little more agency and common sense. She’s almost too good and too perfect, nothing is wrong with her. And I don’t mind an overly-good heroine, but at times, she veered into territory of being overly simple- especially for a contemporary heroine. She felt very much like an object in this book in this way- husbands want/own her as a possession, things happen to her or are done to her, but she doesn’t happen to anything or do anything, she doesn’t feel like the subject of this with any power of self-determination even after her minor moments of self-actualization. For being the main character, she wasn’t really fully developped as her only motivation and desire in life was to please her husband; she had nothing else through which we could get to know her and her personal ambitions and dreams, her personality beyond servile and humble… etc. Tobe’s character development was a little stronger- loving Akwaugo obsessively was his main character trait, but we knew him a bit better than Akwa because he had a sister and cousin to speak to and reveal himself through, plus a fairly relevant back story, but more could have been done with him.
In terms of genre, I’ve seen this characterized as paranormal… and I don’t know if it’s because of the Nigerian in me but I found those elements eminently plausible and not that paranormal. And for me this point has been an interesting opportunity for self-reflection around what I consider paranormal in fiction and how it might be informed by what ontologies and cultures I’ve grown up surrounded by. I suppose in the general scheme of the fiction world, it could be considered paranormal.
This is overall a super spicy, at times sad and potentially triggering (domestic abuse), really authentically Igbo romance. I quite liked it and enjoyed reading it, and I would recommend it to people who like old school Nollywood films (of the kind with the flute soundtrack playing in the background for village scenes).
I am a fan of old school Nollywood films and this was very reminiscent of those in style and plot- the Cinderella Story kind with the city boy with lots of money and power sort of rescuing the village girl with limited power and agency despite her beauty and brains that’s stuck in an untenable situation. This was more or less Tobe and Akwaugo’s story and I would say if you like that era of Nigerian movies, you’ll like this book.
Personally, I really enjoyed this. I thought the plot was interesting and different and brought in a lot of Igbo tradition and contemporary culture. My feminist self cringed at the narratives of ownership around bride price but this was very well and authentically aligned with prevailing cultural narratives around it and I appreciated it in the context of the authentically Igbo story the author wanted to tell. I loved that this was deeply embedded in Nnewi and the rich setting was germane to the story and almost given character status, so that this was not a romance that could have been set anywhere else in the world. I liked the secondary characters enough that I wish we had seen even more of them and that they had had a greater role in the story. I think the story was told well and in a way that was compelling despite it being centered on romance’s lease favourite trope OW/OM / toxic love triangle… even if I wouldn’t quite say it was a LOVE triangle because from the beginning you are not rooting for the evil Mezie. That said, this might not be for the strongest sticklers who really don’t like the love triangle OW/OM trope. Personally, my issue with it wasn’t so much the infidelity angle (because her husband already wrote himself out of being a contender for the reader from page 1 with his demands of her), but the stagnation and passivity from the heroine and how the story gets stuck in that phase for a bit.
Despite all the positives, there were a few issues with this book for me- I think the most obvious thing that runs across is the need for a better proofreading edit- there were several typos, homophones, issues with tenses, and malapropisms that were sometimes bad enough that the meaning of the sentence was lost. I think this book deserves a better edit than that. Character-wise, I know it speaks to some women’s realities and Akwaugo is very much in that Efuru archetype of a good, African wife who bears all things with dignity and silence, but I wish she had a little more agency and common sense. She’s almost too good and too perfect, nothing is wrong with her. And I don’t mind an overly-good heroine, but at times, she veered into territory of being overly simple- especially for a contemporary heroine. She felt very much like an object in this book in this way- husbands want/own her as a possession, things happen to her or are done to her, but she doesn’t happen to anything or do anything, she doesn’t feel like the subject of this with any power of self-determination even after her minor moments of self-actualization. For being the main character, she wasn’t really fully developped as her only motivation and desire in life was to please her husband; she had nothing else through which we could get to know her and her personal ambitions and dreams, her personality beyond servile and humble… etc. Tobe’s character development was a little stronger- loving Akwaugo obsessively was his main character trait, but we knew him a bit better than Akwa because he had a sister and cousin to speak to and reveal himself through, plus a fairly relevant back story, but more could have been done with him.
In terms of genre, I’ve seen this characterized as paranormal… and I don’t know if it’s because of the Nigerian in me but I found those elements eminently plausible and not that paranormal. And for me this point has been an interesting opportunity for self-reflection around what I consider paranormal in fiction and how it might be informed by what ontologies and cultures I’ve grown up surrounded by. I suppose in the general scheme of the fiction world, it could be considered paranormal.
This is overall a super spicy, at times sad and potentially triggering (domestic abuse), really authentically Igbo romance. I quite liked it and enjoyed reading it, and I would recommend it to people who like old school Nollywood films (of the kind with the flute soundtrack playing in the background for village scenes).
July 14, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book.
Loved the plot, the writing style which was quite easy and engaging to follow.
The Igbo sexual content was plain hilarious and made me question my bias towards sexual Igbo words.
Mezie didn’t get what he deserved, his death was way too easy.
All in all, it was a fun read
Loved the plot, the writing style which was quite easy and engaging to follow.
The Igbo sexual content was plain hilarious and made me question my bias towards sexual Igbo words.
Mezie didn’t get what he deserved, his death was way too easy.
All in all, it was a fun read
March 31, 2023
See just buy this book. Rosemary has has found her niche. I was curious about the caste system in Igbo land and this story cleared it up for me. I can't wait to read more from Rosemary
February 13, 2025
A quick and sweet read, riddled with romance and spiritualism. Loved the ending too.
March 30, 2023
An amazing read. Enjoyed every bit of this story. The characters well developed, the setting, the scenes. I couldn't skip any page.
January 3, 2023
Wonderful
Rich with history. I love it I could not put the book down until the end. You keep getting better.
Rich with history. I love it I could not put the book down until the end. You keep getting better.
December 21, 2022
A blockbuster!!!
For starters, when I read the blurb of Akwaugo, I kept wondering in my head , how Rosemary spins her stories, because this is definitely not a cliche love story. You out did yourself over and over again with this delectable piece.
Back to the book......😁
I had a myriad of emotions reading Akwaugo, from angst, to sad to happy to 'aww' moments and total disgust at some characters....
What on earth is Mezie( sorry, I know I should have used who but I can't help it😐) because who on earth does that to a woman he claims he loves or was he doing Akwaugo a favour?. His character made me cringe ...may I never come across a Mezie, because......
Akwaugo....thank God you eventually took that decision I wanted you to take , better late than never. Sweet like sugar, skin like milk....but you were almost turned to the opposite of that.
Tobe.... I love you to pieces...found myself a new book bae...
I love how the characters both main and supporting gained full expression in the novel. This is a superlative , stunning piece of work with romance story telling in another form that captures cultural essence and a bit of panorama. This book can be made into a movie or a soap opera and I'll be interested in watching cos there was no dull moment from start to finish, no room to skip pages as there was always an information you didn't want to miss.
One thing I didn't quite enjoy is that the book contained igbo language which I'll have preferred that the interpretation be written at the bottom of each page , maybe in italics so we can follow along immediately while reading, not having to wait till the end.
I give this a whooping 5 star...⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. I love!!!
Trigger warning - emotional and physical abuse, infidelity...
For starters, when I read the blurb of Akwaugo, I kept wondering in my head , how Rosemary spins her stories, because this is definitely not a cliche love story. You out did yourself over and over again with this delectable piece.
Back to the book......😁
I had a myriad of emotions reading Akwaugo, from angst, to sad to happy to 'aww' moments and total disgust at some characters....
What on earth is Mezie( sorry, I know I should have used who but I can't help it😐) because who on earth does that to a woman he claims he loves or was he doing Akwaugo a favour?. His character made me cringe ...may I never come across a Mezie, because......
Akwaugo....thank God you eventually took that decision I wanted you to take , better late than never. Sweet like sugar, skin like milk....but you were almost turned to the opposite of that.
Tobe.... I love you to pieces...found myself a new book bae...
I love how the characters both main and supporting gained full expression in the novel. This is a superlative , stunning piece of work with romance story telling in another form that captures cultural essence and a bit of panorama. This book can be made into a movie or a soap opera and I'll be interested in watching cos there was no dull moment from start to finish, no room to skip pages as there was always an information you didn't want to miss.
One thing I didn't quite enjoy is that the book contained igbo language which I'll have preferred that the interpretation be written at the bottom of each page , maybe in italics so we can follow along immediately while reading, not having to wait till the end.
I give this a whooping 5 star...⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. I love!!!
Trigger warning - emotional and physical abuse, infidelity...
December 15, 2022
This review is a tribute to Nairaland's literature section authors. I read the earliest version of Akwaugo on Nairaland back when it was still His Neighbour's Wife. It was torture waiting for Rosemary33 to post an update.
Anyway, this isn't a post about the my lives and times frolicking the streets of Nairaland.
Rosemary took His Neighbour's Wife and revamped it into Akwaugo, and this is a post reviewing Akwaugo.
So this story is steamy, heat everywhere, and I'd advise you note that if steam is not your thing. You can skip the pages though.
So let's get to the review proper. One thing I have to say endeared me to the book is the use of figures of speech with an artistic flourish. I'm not sure whether it's because of the richness of the Igbo language or there's something in the water over there, I've found authors from the Eastern part of Nigeria have a certain way with words and description that just sends a thrill down my spine. Rosemary reminded me of Chimmamanda Ngozi Adichie with her description.
In my opinion, Rosemary Okafor took Africa Magic Epic/Igbo, gave it a makeover, added some panache and gave it to us spicy and steamy. I love the display of Igbo culture and traditions.
There were a few things in the book that didn't sit well with me like the paranormal bits, the plenteous swearing and the cheating bit. Also, I missed the drama His Neighbour's Wife had. I was so looking forward to Nwamaka's drama, but that seemed to have been cut out of this version.
In all, it's a nice read. It had me gripped till the end.
Anyway, this isn't a post about the my lives and times frolicking the streets of Nairaland.
Rosemary took His Neighbour's Wife and revamped it into Akwaugo, and this is a post reviewing Akwaugo.
So this story is steamy, heat everywhere, and I'd advise you note that if steam is not your thing. You can skip the pages though.
So let's get to the review proper. One thing I have to say endeared me to the book is the use of figures of speech with an artistic flourish. I'm not sure whether it's because of the richness of the Igbo language or there's something in the water over there, I've found authors from the Eastern part of Nigeria have a certain way with words and description that just sends a thrill down my spine. Rosemary reminded me of Chimmamanda Ngozi Adichie with her description.
In my opinion, Rosemary Okafor took Africa Magic Epic/Igbo, gave it a makeover, added some panache and gave it to us spicy and steamy. I love the display of Igbo culture and traditions.
There were a few things in the book that didn't sit well with me like the paranormal bits, the plenteous swearing and the cheating bit. Also, I missed the drama His Neighbour's Wife had. I was so looking forward to Nwamaka's drama, but that seemed to have been cut out of this version.
In all, it's a nice read. It had me gripped till the end.
August 22, 2022
Damn!!!!!
I couldn't stop reading, hoping and wishing it wouldn't end.
A lot shouldn't be, but then who are we to decide what fate has in store for us.
A marriage that shouldn't have happened.
A blood oath that should have never been.
And a love made in heaven.
The plot, the twists..... When you think you have gotten to the end, a new twist.
The characters growth was naturally done.... The story beautifully weaved together and the twists......
A blend of tradition, religion and reality..... A reality of the society we live in today. Tradition and religion looking for a meeting point.
Well done Rosemary.
Just like all the others, I will read and read again.
I couldn't stop reading, hoping and wishing it wouldn't end.
A lot shouldn't be, but then who are we to decide what fate has in store for us.
A marriage that shouldn't have happened.
A blood oath that should have never been.
And a love made in heaven.
The plot, the twists..... When you think you have gotten to the end, a new twist.
The characters growth was naturally done.... The story beautifully weaved together and the twists......
A blend of tradition, religion and reality..... A reality of the society we live in today. Tradition and religion looking for a meeting point.
Well done Rosemary.
Just like all the others, I will read and read again.
November 1, 2022
This book is everything I am looking for in an African paranormal romance. I must say that I know the village this author used as her setting in this story, and everything she wrote about it reminds me of that place.
Going through this is like a breath of fresh air from the normal contemporary romance. I love the dept of description, the character building, the portraying of tradition and religion, the interference of the deities and fate.
The conflicts!!! Yes. I love the conflicts in this story and how it was resolved.
What is there not to love about this story?
Wow. It's simply amazing.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
Going through this is like a breath of fresh air from the normal contemporary romance. I love the dept of description, the character building, the portraying of tradition and religion, the interference of the deities and fate.
The conflicts!!! Yes. I love the conflicts in this story and how it was resolved.
What is there not to love about this story?
Wow. It's simply amazing.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
December 16, 2022
For those who love to read about African culture and traditions, you would realize that this book cuts across borders. Rosemary highlights many critical issues - the relationship between modernity and tradition, access to education, gender and marriage, intimate partner violence, love ❤️, and the importance of speaking up. This is a story we will tell our children and grandchildren. Good plot and well-developed characters. Well done!
February 5, 2023
This is a wonderful, well-written story. It is a perfect blend of Nigerian cultural tradition and modernity. The author weaved the story to form a very beautiful African paranormal romance.
I fell in love with Akwaugo, but I loved Tobe more. The story was everything I want in a romance novel, and I would definitely read more from this Author.
Thank you for this awesome book!
I fell in love with Akwaugo, but I loved Tobe more. The story was everything I want in a romance novel, and I would definitely read more from this Author.
Thank you for this awesome book!
January 5, 2023
I enjoyed this thoroughly.
I loved everything about this book. Culture, language, characters, setting. It was a beautiful read. It's refreshing to see love displayed like this - in a deeply African way.
I loved everything about this book. Culture, language, characters, setting. It was a beautiful read. It's refreshing to see love displayed like this - in a deeply African way.
January 13, 2025
A Gripping Forbidden African Romance: My Honest Review
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
When I picked up my first African book of the year, I had no idea it would take me on such an emotional rollercoaster. This story of love, betrayal, and resilience left me unable to put the book down. Here’s my honest take on it.
The Plot:
The story follows Akwaugo, a woman trapped in a toxic marriage with Mazie—a man ruled by ego and selfishness. He cheats without remorse, treats Akwaugo like an object, and still expects her loyalty. His hypocrisy knows no limits. When he couldn't father a child due to a curse, Mazie stoops low enough to push Akwaugo into having a baby by another man, only to insult her later.
But then comes Tobe—a man who deeply cares for Akwaugo. Their love is forbidden, yet undeniably captivating. His obsession and character growth kept me rooting for him the entire time.
Akwaugo: Her timid nature was frustrating, but it reflects the struggles of women in patriarchal systems.
Tobe: Obsessed, loving, and beautifully developed—my favorite character by far.
Why I Loved It:
The plot had twists that kept me glued to every page, blending emotional drama with cultural depth. I appreciated how the story reflected Igbo cultural narratives while exploring universal themes of love and liberation.
Final Thoughts:
If you enjoy forbidden romance mixed with drama and culture, this book is for you. It’s emotional, wild, and unforgettable. Just be ready to hate Mazie and fall in love with Tobe!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
When I picked up my first African book of the year, I had no idea it would take me on such an emotional rollercoaster. This story of love, betrayal, and resilience left me unable to put the book down. Here’s my honest take on it.
The Plot:
The story follows Akwaugo, a woman trapped in a toxic marriage with Mazie—a man ruled by ego and selfishness. He cheats without remorse, treats Akwaugo like an object, and still expects her loyalty. His hypocrisy knows no limits. When he couldn't father a child due to a curse, Mazie stoops low enough to push Akwaugo into having a baby by another man, only to insult her later.
But then comes Tobe—a man who deeply cares for Akwaugo. Their love is forbidden, yet undeniably captivating. His obsession and character growth kept me rooting for him the entire time.
Akwaugo: Her timid nature was frustrating, but it reflects the struggles of women in patriarchal systems.
Tobe: Obsessed, loving, and beautifully developed—my favorite character by far.
Why I Loved It:
The plot had twists that kept me glued to every page, blending emotional drama with cultural depth. I appreciated how the story reflected Igbo cultural narratives while exploring universal themes of love and liberation.
Final Thoughts:
If you enjoy forbidden romance mixed with drama and culture, this book is for you. It’s emotional, wild, and unforgettable. Just be ready to hate Mazie and fall in love with Tobe!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2025
If you’re one who is purely interested in African Magic drama, then this book is for you. It felt like watching a Nollywood movie, and that’s what added to the thrill.
Set in Nnewi, Anambra State, this book follows Akwaugo, which translates to “Eagle’s Egg.” It’s a name that’s mostly used for ladies, and could mean something treasured. For the past 7 years she’s been married to Mezie, her short ugly husband, they’ve been unable to have a child.
Her husband insists that she sleeps with another man so she can be able to have a child. Mezie has a nasty secret he did not want to reveal, but ends up forcing Akwaugo to have sex with another man.
Come in Tobechukwu, a billionaire businessman who helps in salvaging the situation. But that one encounter with Akwaugo turns into a chaotic trajectory: a woman carrying a child that’s not for her husband; a man falling in love with another man’s wife; a man annoyed at the attention his pregnant wife is receiving and maltreating her.
Personally, I love Chapter 38: hot, and spicy. There’s unimaginable things Igbo men can do for love. I love the drama. I love the chipping in of Igbo proverbs. I love the fusion of Igbo spirituality. I love the ending.
Tackling the themes of love, marriage dynamics, infidelity, spirituality, and death, it’s one book that felt close to home, and I was able to finish it in a relatively short period.
Set in Nnewi, Anambra State, this book follows Akwaugo, which translates to “Eagle’s Egg.” It’s a name that’s mostly used for ladies, and could mean something treasured. For the past 7 years she’s been married to Mezie, her short ugly husband, they’ve been unable to have a child.
Her husband insists that she sleeps with another man so she can be able to have a child. Mezie has a nasty secret he did not want to reveal, but ends up forcing Akwaugo to have sex with another man.
Come in Tobechukwu, a billionaire businessman who helps in salvaging the situation. But that one encounter with Akwaugo turns into a chaotic trajectory: a woman carrying a child that’s not for her husband; a man falling in love with another man’s wife; a man annoyed at the attention his pregnant wife is receiving and maltreating her.
Personally, I love Chapter 38: hot, and spicy. There’s unimaginable things Igbo men can do for love. I love the drama. I love the chipping in of Igbo proverbs. I love the fusion of Igbo spirituality. I love the ending.
Tackling the themes of love, marriage dynamics, infidelity, spirituality, and death, it’s one book that felt close to home, and I was able to finish it in a relatively short period.
July 19, 2025
I enjoyed reading Akwaugo by Rosemary Okafor, this book snatched me out of my reading slump. I hadn't picked up a book in days, but I finished it in a day. That's how hooked I was🤭
This is the story Akwaugo who's married to a man named Mezie, one of the most frustrating fictional husbands l've ever come across. Out of desperation to have a child, Mezie asks Akwaugo to sleep with another man. Yes, you read that right. And she does.
The man she chooses is Tobe. But what was supposed to be a one-time arrangement turns into something deeper. They form a connection neither of them expected and definitely weren't ready for.
Tobe tries to resist it, reminding himself she's another man's wife... but there's this invisible pull between them that keeps drawing them back together.
This book touches on sacrifice, emotional manipulation, the silent strength of women, and how love can grow in the most unexpected and complicated spaces.
If you're looking for a book that's easy to get into, filled with emotional tension, relatable pain, and characters you'll want to scream at, read this book.
Seriously, Akwaugo is a beautiful and messy story that you will enjoy😉
This is the story Akwaugo who's married to a man named Mezie, one of the most frustrating fictional husbands l've ever come across. Out of desperation to have a child, Mezie asks Akwaugo to sleep with another man. Yes, you read that right. And she does.
The man she chooses is Tobe. But what was supposed to be a one-time arrangement turns into something deeper. They form a connection neither of them expected and definitely weren't ready for.
Tobe tries to resist it, reminding himself she's another man's wife... but there's this invisible pull between them that keeps drawing them back together.
This book touches on sacrifice, emotional manipulation, the silent strength of women, and how love can grow in the most unexpected and complicated spaces.
If you're looking for a book that's easy to get into, filled with emotional tension, relatable pain, and characters you'll want to scream at, read this book.
Seriously, Akwaugo is a beautiful and messy story that you will enjoy😉
October 1, 2024
This book tells the story of beautiful Akwaugo who carries out a duty to her impotent husband by finding a stranger to impregnate her so as to wipe her husband’s shame.
It turns out that Akwaugo’s husband is abusive and had made her take an oath at two formidable shrines; Edo and Okija to ensure that she was forever bound to him.
This is the first book I’ll read from this author and I’m hooked already. The book is deeply rooted in the Igbo culture which is quite unusual with Nigerian romance fiction. The employ of the Osu caste system was just intriguing as well and for once, it was advantageous unlike anything I’ve ever read in Nigerian fiction.
This book had me throwing my morals away and romanticizing cheating because I’m onboard this ship!!
I do not think there has been anyone to fully explain the concept of spirituality or traditional worship but if there’s one thing I know, there always is a phenomenon of spirituality that defies science.
I really enjoyed this book. It’s so unlike anything I’ve read before and I’m highly recommending it.
It turns out that Akwaugo’s husband is abusive and had made her take an oath at two formidable shrines; Edo and Okija to ensure that she was forever bound to him.
This is the first book I’ll read from this author and I’m hooked already. The book is deeply rooted in the Igbo culture which is quite unusual with Nigerian romance fiction. The employ of the Osu caste system was just intriguing as well and for once, it was advantageous unlike anything I’ve ever read in Nigerian fiction.
This book had me throwing my morals away and romanticizing cheating because I’m onboard this ship!!
I do not think there has been anyone to fully explain the concept of spirituality or traditional worship but if there’s one thing I know, there always is a phenomenon of spirituality that defies science.
I really enjoyed this book. It’s so unlike anything I’ve read before and I’m highly recommending it.
February 19, 2024
When I got into Akwaugo, I didn't know what I'd get. I'd heard it was a good read. I'd heard it was the best from Rosemary, and I'd heard that the story would sit in my heart and play favourites.
It did all that and more. The Africaness of the story was on point, the lead characters had serious depth and the dialogue was downright believable, propped by the dressing and actions of all the characters. Case in point, Mezie and his loin cloth😁.
Rosemary did much to bring us a unique female lead that was likeable in her gullible innocence and applaudable in her devotion to her husband (Till he turned her mad with his caustic personality).
What I absolutely loved were the literary novel type sentences, the unique storyline, the way it threw me back into the old african stories we read and loved (e.g The Concubine) and how it gave me Nollywood vibes without the cringe worthy scenes.
Akwaugo was a fantastic read. I rated it 5 stars and read mine on Bambooks.
It did all that and more. The Africaness of the story was on point, the lead characters had serious depth and the dialogue was downright believable, propped by the dressing and actions of all the characters. Case in point, Mezie and his loin cloth😁.
Rosemary did much to bring us a unique female lead that was likeable in her gullible innocence and applaudable in her devotion to her husband (Till he turned her mad with his caustic personality).
What I absolutely loved were the literary novel type sentences, the unique storyline, the way it threw me back into the old african stories we read and loved (e.g The Concubine) and how it gave me Nollywood vibes without the cringe worthy scenes.
Akwaugo was a fantastic read. I rated it 5 stars and read mine on Bambooks.
September 21, 2024
How this book hasn't been made into a movie yet,I will never understand.
Did it have a Nollywood movie vibe to it?,yes.
Did I also read the hell out of it and enjoy every bit ?,also yes😊
What I loved about this book was how Akwaugo's definitions of love change as she slowly grows out of love from Mezie and falls in love with Tobe.she had been groomed by Mezie from when she was still in school to understand that fear and respecting a man were how you showed love to a man but watching her unlearn that and fully embrace the true definition of love with Tobe was beautiful to read.
How Tobe stood unwaveringly by Akwaugo's side from the first day they met made me fall in love with him too.His emotional intelligence particularly was very enchanting.
Did it have a Nollywood movie vibe to it?,yes.
Did I also read the hell out of it and enjoy every bit ?,also yes😊
What I loved about this book was how Akwaugo's definitions of love change as she slowly grows out of love from Mezie and falls in love with Tobe.she had been groomed by Mezie from when she was still in school to understand that fear and respecting a man were how you showed love to a man but watching her unlearn that and fully embrace the true definition of love with Tobe was beautiful to read.
How Tobe stood unwaveringly by Akwaugo's side from the first day they met made me fall in love with him too.His emotional intelligence particularly was very enchanting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2025
From a village girl with the most toxic husband to being a wife of a billionaire. 😭❤️
I had a lot of mixed emotions!!! From the moment I read the prolong I disliked mezie😭 I went on to gaslit myself saying I am probably judging his character too soon but I was right😭
He made me so upset. But I am glad she found love in the purest and sweetest form and she got her happy ending and Mezie got exactly what he deserved.
I totally enjoyed reading this book so much and I learned that you should always choose yourself irrespective of what people would say or think…. Thank God for Tobe in Akwaugo’s life. 🫠🤲🏽
I had a lot of mixed emotions!!! From the moment I read the prolong I disliked mezie😭 I went on to gaslit myself saying I am probably judging his character too soon but I was right😭
He made me so upset. But I am glad she found love in the purest and sweetest form and she got her happy ending and Mezie got exactly what he deserved.
I totally enjoyed reading this book so much and I learned that you should always choose yourself irrespective of what people would say or think…. Thank God for Tobe in Akwaugo’s life. 🫠🤲🏽
March 3, 2025
This book really stressed me but the romance between Akwaugo and Tobe compensated me real good.
I never thought I would enjoy a paranormal romance book but here I am and I loved that it is an Igbo book with Igbo characters and even in Anambra. I really enjoyed the languages especially when they played their love. So sweet to me and yes Tobe really went out of his way for his woman.
I enjoyed it and wish to read more Nigerian romances that end well like this minus the trauma that is.
So many societal issues highlighted shedding light on the reality of Nigerian women in marriages.
I never thought I would enjoy a paranormal romance book but here I am and I loved that it is an Igbo book with Igbo characters and even in Anambra. I really enjoyed the languages especially when they played their love. So sweet to me and yes Tobe really went out of his way for his woman.
I enjoyed it and wish to read more Nigerian romances that end well like this minus the trauma that is.
So many societal issues highlighted shedding light on the reality of Nigerian women in marriages.
August 6, 2025
I have never read something like this before in my life,It was giving African Magic epic vibes and I love it!!!
The story line is so unique and I love how it’s heavily peppered with Igbo(my native language)
The pacing,Rosemary’s unique writing style,the accurate descriptions,everything was giving!!!(even the cringe Igbo sex scenes😭😂)
I do have a problem with Tobe always swearing (Fuck this,fuck that) and his seeming obsession with Akwaugo’s “innocence”
Obviously Mezie will rot in hell but I totally loved Akwaugo and Tobe’s love story!!
Ps:Tobe has successfully raised the bar!👏
The story line is so unique and I love how it’s heavily peppered with Igbo(my native language)
The pacing,Rosemary’s unique writing style,the accurate descriptions,everything was giving!!!(even the cringe Igbo sex scenes😭😂)
I do have a problem with Tobe always swearing (Fuck this,fuck that) and his seeming obsession with Akwaugo’s “innocence”
Obviously Mezie will rot in hell but I totally loved Akwaugo and Tobe’s love story!!
Ps:Tobe has successfully raised the bar!👏
March 16, 2025
This story deserves awards and recognitions
This is the second book I'm reading by the author and it's already a favorite.
Though in the beginning, Akwaugo was uncertain and fighting the chemistry/connection between her and Tobe, I loved that once she accepted the feeling, she fought and stood her ground. Tobe, na man you be. I'm not igbo but, the book was beautifully written and I felt like I understood every igbo word 😁
By the way, Mezie got exactly what he deserved
This is the second book I'm reading by the author and it's already a favorite.
Though in the beginning, Akwaugo was uncertain and fighting the chemistry/connection between her and Tobe, I loved that once she accepted the feeling, she fought and stood her ground. Tobe, na man you be. I'm not igbo but, the book was beautifully written and I felt like I understood every igbo word 😁
By the way, Mezie got exactly what he deserved
November 29, 2025
This book is about love and survival. And also about what happens when a woman finally chooses herself, the danger of male ego, and about a man who proves that love does not have to hurt to be real.
The themes of patriarchy, faith, and karma run deep, and the spiritual elements made the story feel rooted in African tradition while still being universal.
I can see Akwaugo making a solid Nollywood movie. It is beautifully written, emotional, and packed with life lessons.
The themes of patriarchy, faith, and karma run deep, and the spiritual elements made the story feel rooted in African tradition while still being universal.
I can see Akwaugo making a solid Nollywood movie. It is beautifully written, emotional, and packed with life lessons.
March 30, 2023
I love the whole character in this story, even the villain was perfectly written. The side characters amazing. The setting beautiful. I love that its centered in Africa, like... this author brought in the traditions, beliefs, taboos.
This is one forbidden romance book I don't think I can forget in a hurry.
This is one forbidden romance book I don't think I can forget in a hurry.
April 1, 2023
I heard so much about this book from TikTok and IG and decided to read it. I love that it’s a story based on African. Beautiful plot, beautiful setting, the characters are well written. The fun part is that I get to learn a little if Igbo language.
However, I was expecting a painful death for the wicked Meuse, but the author knows why she chose to give him an abrupt end.
However, I was expecting a painful death for the wicked Meuse, but the author knows why she chose to give him an abrupt end.
August 1, 2025
This is one book I find myself wanting to read again and again because I genuinely enjoyed reading it. The storyline is fantastic, and I love the characters. Even though I think Mezie deserved a harsher outcome, I found everything else to be perfect. I also really appreciated that the setting was outside the usual Lagos scenery we often see in books, which made it feel fresh and captivating.
December 3, 2025
3.5 This was a good book! The author captured how wicked the heart of man is! I really did love that it happened that way!
Some parts of the book could be fleshed out a bit more. This book had the potential to be a 5 star for me but I felt some places were rushed and some where stretched out.
Overall I loved the feeling of this book and reading it.
Some parts of the book could be fleshed out a bit more. This book had the potential to be a 5 star for me but I felt some places were rushed and some where stretched out.
Overall I loved the feeling of this book and reading it.
March 30, 2023
A page turner..... With every page, you want to know what happens next yet you want it to last for ever.
The blend of culture, religion, modernization, love and belief.
Indeed we all love differently. This Rosemary captures in this interesting and rounded book.
Thank you
The blend of culture, religion, modernization, love and belief.
Indeed we all love differently. This Rosemary captures in this interesting and rounded book.
Thank you
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