What do you think?
Rate this book
Philip Taiwo #2
Gaslight
In this follow-up to Kayode's "action-packed and spirited debut" Philip Taiwo returns to solve a missing-persons case, and in so doing, uncovers dark secrets the church has worked tirelessly to hide (Oyinkan Braithwaite, author of My Sister, the Serial Killer ).
A shadow has fallen over the megachurch in Ogun State, the beloved Bishop Dawodu has been arrested for the murder of his wife. Sade Dawodu has vanished without a trace and although no body has been found, the police have acted based on what they claim is damning evidence. Philip Taiwo, hot off the success of solving the Okriki Three case, is brought on to investigate. He quickly learns that Sade, young, impulsive, and outspoken, is no favorite of the congregants. She has also been known to disappear for long stretches of time. As Taiwo and his trusted associate, Chika plunge into the investigation, they unearth secrets that go beyond the missing persons case, ones that if leaked, threaten to shatter not only the Bishop, but the church itself. Taiwo quickly begins to feel like a hired gun, put up to the task with the express purpose to clear the bishop’s name rather than find the naked truth.
As Taiwo strives to crack the vast conspiracy he's up against, he’s tugged away by the demands of family life, and derailed by systemic in Nigeria, cash is king, there are no viable databases, and records are sparse. Through his eyes, we’re treated to religion’s cult-like grip, the ways in which the state is in bed with the church, and the difference between police corruption in Nigeria and America, where Philip has been living for over two decades. In turns high-octane, dark and political, but always emotionally stirring, this highly-anticipated follow-up to LIGHTSEEKERS has the bones of a classic mystery with a fresh, global tilt.
A shadow has fallen over the megachurch in Ogun State, the beloved Bishop Dawodu has been arrested for the murder of his wife. Sade Dawodu has vanished without a trace and although no body has been found, the police have acted based on what they claim is damning evidence. Philip Taiwo, hot off the success of solving the Okriki Three case, is brought on to investigate. He quickly learns that Sade, young, impulsive, and outspoken, is no favorite of the congregants. She has also been known to disappear for long stretches of time. As Taiwo and his trusted associate, Chika plunge into the investigation, they unearth secrets that go beyond the missing persons case, ones that if leaked, threaten to shatter not only the Bishop, but the church itself. Taiwo quickly begins to feel like a hired gun, put up to the task with the express purpose to clear the bishop’s name rather than find the naked truth.
As Taiwo strives to crack the vast conspiracy he's up against, he’s tugged away by the demands of family life, and derailed by systemic in Nigeria, cash is king, there are no viable databases, and records are sparse. Through his eyes, we’re treated to religion’s cult-like grip, the ways in which the state is in bed with the church, and the difference between police corruption in Nigeria and America, where Philip has been living for over two decades. In turns high-octane, dark and political, but always emotionally stirring, this highly-anticipated follow-up to LIGHTSEEKERS has the bones of a classic mystery with a fresh, global tilt.
Hardcover
First published November 21, 2023
71 people are currently reading
3660 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
Read
July 1, 2024Lagos-set murder mystery with a forensic psychologist detective, investigating the disappearance of the wife of a megachurch's evangelical bishop.
It's a great premise and there's a lot to like in this series but there's a kind of cumulative attitude to women throughout that made it a bit draining as a read. Lavishly detailed accounts of the wife's abuse, an insistence on the formidable brilliance of the hero's wife that doesn't translate into letting her do anything at all, a really incredibly unconvinving teen girls sub plot. It's not that it feels misogynistic per se, it's just the women in this book have zero agency in either public or private spheres except as expressed in self harm, and...you know, if you want to read a book about Nigerian women clawing for agency, I strongly recommend The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives and Dazzling and You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty.
It's a great premise and there's a lot to like in this series but there's a kind of cumulative attitude to women throughout that made it a bit draining as a read. Lavishly detailed accounts of the wife's abuse, an insistence on the formidable brilliance of the hero's wife that doesn't translate into letting her do anything at all, a really incredibly unconvinving teen girls sub plot. It's not that it feels misogynistic per se, it's just the women in this book have zero agency in either public or private spheres except as expressed in self harm, and...you know, if you want to read a book about Nigerian women clawing for agency, I strongly recommend The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives and Dazzling and You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty.
January 15, 2024
GASLIGHT is the second book in the Philip Taiwo series by Nigerian author Femi Kayode. Taiwo is a forensic psychologist who worked for several years in the U.S. before returning home to Nigeria with his family.
This time out, we spend more time with Taiwo’s family, viewing the African community from their point of view as well as from Taiwo’s. Taiwo’s wife, Folake, a lawyer, has a forceful personalty, in contrast to Taiwo’s more even-tempered, contemplative approach to life. The emphasis, however, is on the household turmoil generated by their teenage daughter, Lara. She doesn’t like the move to Africa, stating: ’The people aren’t that nice. It’s hot and noisy. Everyone speaks at once. There’s dust everywhere. The roads are a nightmare. The internet is even slower than the traffic which means that you can’t get anywhere. Literally! The food is overrated. Who needs all that spice, day in, day out?’ Lara has trouble fitting into the cultural landscape of Nigeria. (Plus that’s probably a good description of Lagos from an outsider’s point of view.)
However, Taiwo’s family dynamics are backdrop. The main story concerns a case that he accepts at the bequest of his sister, Kenny. The wife of a megachurch leader has gone missing and her husband, Bishop Jeremiah Dawodu, has been arrested, suspected of murdering her. Taiwo soon demonstrates that the evidence against Dawodu has been fabricated and he is released. But during his inquiries, Taiwo comes across evidence of serious corruption in the handling of church finances. To help him solve all the entanglements that arise from this discovery, he again enlists the help of Chika Makuochi, a former mercenary who now owns a successful security business,
GASLIGHT cannot be classified as mystery, because by the 30% point we know who the main villains are. It is a thriller but moves slowly until near the end. It is mostly an observation about the role of religion within Nigerian communities.
When one considers that the rise of Pentecostal churches in the early 1980s coincided with the collapse of the Naira, severe austerity measures and a military junta that plundered the country’s oil wealth, you’d be inclined to agree with Karl Marx that religion is an opium. Hope, a fundamental human need, is what religion offers.
The author is a smooth, easy-to-read writer, and the story is set in a country that few of us know much about; one that readers should get to know better. There are also thought-provoking undertones about the role of women in the new African culture. I did have a few problems, though, with the concept of Grace Church. There is no explanation of how the church has grown so quickly under Bishop Dawodu—a church that gained millions of members across the globe in a period of less than 20 years. Furthermore, I would have liked to have been given more detail about how the Christian citizens of Lagos coexist with its Muslim citizens; Nigeria is split almost equally between the two religions, a fact that has caused turmoil in the past and is likely to cause it again in the future.
GASLIGHT doesn’t take long to read, and thus is highly recommended for anyone who doesn’t want to spend all their reading time in the North American/European cultural milieu.
I borrowed this book from the Greater Victoria Public Library.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My review for the first book in this series:
Lightseekers, Philip Taiwo, #1
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This time out, we spend more time with Taiwo’s family, viewing the African community from their point of view as well as from Taiwo’s. Taiwo’s wife, Folake, a lawyer, has a forceful personalty, in contrast to Taiwo’s more even-tempered, contemplative approach to life. The emphasis, however, is on the household turmoil generated by their teenage daughter, Lara. She doesn’t like the move to Africa, stating: ’The people aren’t that nice. It’s hot and noisy. Everyone speaks at once. There’s dust everywhere. The roads are a nightmare. The internet is even slower than the traffic which means that you can’t get anywhere. Literally! The food is overrated. Who needs all that spice, day in, day out?’ Lara has trouble fitting into the cultural landscape of Nigeria. (Plus that’s probably a good description of Lagos from an outsider’s point of view.)
However, Taiwo’s family dynamics are backdrop. The main story concerns a case that he accepts at the bequest of his sister, Kenny. The wife of a megachurch leader has gone missing and her husband, Bishop Jeremiah Dawodu, has been arrested, suspected of murdering her. Taiwo soon demonstrates that the evidence against Dawodu has been fabricated and he is released. But during his inquiries, Taiwo comes across evidence of serious corruption in the handling of church finances. To help him solve all the entanglements that arise from this discovery, he again enlists the help of Chika Makuochi, a former mercenary who now owns a successful security business,
GASLIGHT cannot be classified as mystery, because by the 30% point we know who the main villains are. It is a thriller but moves slowly until near the end. It is mostly an observation about the role of religion within Nigerian communities.
When one considers that the rise of Pentecostal churches in the early 1980s coincided with the collapse of the Naira, severe austerity measures and a military junta that plundered the country’s oil wealth, you’d be inclined to agree with Karl Marx that religion is an opium. Hope, a fundamental human need, is what religion offers.
The author is a smooth, easy-to-read writer, and the story is set in a country that few of us know much about; one that readers should get to know better. There are also thought-provoking undertones about the role of women in the new African culture. I did have a few problems, though, with the concept of Grace Church. There is no explanation of how the church has grown so quickly under Bishop Dawodu—a church that gained millions of members across the globe in a period of less than 20 years. Furthermore, I would have liked to have been given more detail about how the Christian citizens of Lagos coexist with its Muslim citizens; Nigeria is split almost equally between the two religions, a fact that has caused turmoil in the past and is likely to cause it again in the future.
GASLIGHT doesn’t take long to read, and thus is highly recommended for anyone who doesn’t want to spend all their reading time in the North American/European cultural milieu.
I borrowed this book from the Greater Victoria Public Library.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My review for the first book in this series:
Lightseekers, Philip Taiwo, #1
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
September 22, 2023
A mystery set further a field is always nice to read, and having read and enjoyed the first book I was pleased to see a new addition to the series.
Something of a slow burner to start out, this story set in Lagos, Nigeria is a eye opener culturally as it tells of the Mega Churches and larger than life Preachers at the head of the money making machines.
The book is well constructed and I don’t mind the characters, Taiwo and Chika In particular is great.
The setting is good and as the story twists and turns, and becomes darker in content, the pace picks up and it really culminates in a satisfying read with an ending to suit.
I’d certainly read more from this author and character based in this outing,
Good Reading.
Something of a slow burner to start out, this story set in Lagos, Nigeria is a eye opener culturally as it tells of the Mega Churches and larger than life Preachers at the head of the money making machines.
The book is well constructed and I don’t mind the characters, Taiwo and Chika In particular is great.
The setting is good and as the story twists and turns, and becomes darker in content, the pace picks up and it really culminates in a satisfying read with an ending to suit.
I’d certainly read more from this author and character based in this outing,
Good Reading.
November 10, 2023
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Femi Kayode, Hachette Audio, and Mulholland Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
I have long enjoyed unique perspectives when it comes to my reading materials. Femi Kayode does so, both by presenting new cultural perspectives, as well as unique angles to criminal forensics. Once more using Nigeria as its backdrop, the story follows Philip Taiwo, an investigative psychologist. His reputation precedes him and his is asked through a family member to explore the case of a missing woman whose husband is of some repute. What begins as a missing person investigation turns into potential murder and Dr. Taiwo is there to offer some keen observations. Another great piece by Femi Kayode that had me hooked until the final reveal.
While the megachurch is known for its ability to bring many into the light, a sombreness has fallen upon it now. Nestled in Ogun State, Nigeria, the church is forced to handle the scandal of its leader, Bishop Dawodu, who has been accused of murdering his wife. While he proclaims his innocence, Sade Dawodu is nowhere to be found and the authorities are sniffing around for answers, with a handful of forensic clues that point to the bishop.
Still basking in his successes with a previous case, Dr. Philip Taiwo is asked by his sister to help the church and locate her close friend, Sade. Dr. Taiwo is brought in to help the investigation and hired by the church to exonerate Bishop Dawodu. While not a police officer or detective, Dr. Taiwo’s abilities as an investigative psychologists are like no other, as he seeks to peel back the truth of the matter and the rationale for what might have happened. Beginning his conversations with others, Dr. Taiwo learns that Sade Dawodu was not popular amongst the congregants, particularly when she disappeared for long stretches and did not live under the same rules that were professed from the pulpit. This could lead to some more suspects, but Dr. Taiwo will have to act swiftly if he wants to ensure the bishop is not tried and convicted.
Sade Dawodu’s body is soon found, an apparent suicide in the water. However, some things do not match up when a pathologist takes a closer look. As Dr. Taiwo’s gut feelings lead him to feel there is more to the case than is being discussed, he must also stay within the lines as an investigator.
Dr. Taiwo discovers secrets that could bring the church to its knees, as he tries to spin in in such a way that the truth is sure to emerge. When he is told by the bishop and senior advisors for the church as to how he ought to proceed, Dr. Taiwo feels that his importance is not to get to the truth, but exonerate Bishop Dawodu at any cost. This does bode well for a man who has always used truth to guide him.
Forced to push through the miasma that is cash and power, Dr. Taiwo must take a moment from his investigation to examine the weaknesses in his own family, as they are sometimes put on the back burner. He strives to forge a new and lasting relationship with his children, who have grown up in America, where they discovered a lifestyle that is vastly different from that in Nigeria. With a great deal of pressure laid at his feet, Dr. Philip Taiwo seeks to get the the heart of the matter and find truth, wherever that will take him. Femi Kayode does a wonderful job instilling many key aspects of a crime thriller and story with deep cultural roots.
Femi Kayode does a great job educating the reader to life in Nigeria, while also presenting a strong crime thriller throughout this second novel of the series. Helping those who may not have a grasp with the difference in this piece, Kayode provides a strong narrative foundation on which the story will grow. What works even better is the dual narrative perspectives, shedding additional light on Sade Dawodu’s thoughts throughout the investigation. Key cultural, political, and social aspects flavour the story from the outset and provide the reader with something stellar to enjoy as they make their way through the larger narrative. Great themes emerge, some vastly different from a Western-set novel, but others show that the struggle is real, no matter where one lives.
Characters emerge and are enriched throughout the book, giving the reader a better understanding of many beliefs and perspectives. Dr. Philip Taiwo remains front and centre in this piece, peppering the story with a few sentiments about his past, but also pulling on some of the struggles of parenting in two vastly different spheres; the rush of America and the culturally-deep Nigeria. While there are many others whose presence makes the novel great, it is the inner struggle the Taiwos face as a family that really resonated for me throughout this piece, I am eager to see if we will learn more about them in the year to come.
Plot development is essential in keeping the story strong. Kayode does so effectively, while layering some of the unique aspects of Nigerian life in this novel. There are key aspects to the case that come out with the inquisitiveness of Dr. Taiwo, but many are seen to be the same as those one might expect to find in any crime thriller with a strong storyline. I hope that others will share in my praise as we try to decipher the realities of a crime that is meant to be covered up and a powerful suspect who will stop at nothing to get the answers he wants. I am eager to see what will come with this series, as Femi Kayode has me hooked and eager to learn more.
Kudos, Mr. Kayode, for another sensational piece.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
I have long enjoyed unique perspectives when it comes to my reading materials. Femi Kayode does so, both by presenting new cultural perspectives, as well as unique angles to criminal forensics. Once more using Nigeria as its backdrop, the story follows Philip Taiwo, an investigative psychologist. His reputation precedes him and his is asked through a family member to explore the case of a missing woman whose husband is of some repute. What begins as a missing person investigation turns into potential murder and Dr. Taiwo is there to offer some keen observations. Another great piece by Femi Kayode that had me hooked until the final reveal.
While the megachurch is known for its ability to bring many into the light, a sombreness has fallen upon it now. Nestled in Ogun State, Nigeria, the church is forced to handle the scandal of its leader, Bishop Dawodu, who has been accused of murdering his wife. While he proclaims his innocence, Sade Dawodu is nowhere to be found and the authorities are sniffing around for answers, with a handful of forensic clues that point to the bishop.
Still basking in his successes with a previous case, Dr. Philip Taiwo is asked by his sister to help the church and locate her close friend, Sade. Dr. Taiwo is brought in to help the investigation and hired by the church to exonerate Bishop Dawodu. While not a police officer or detective, Dr. Taiwo’s abilities as an investigative psychologists are like no other, as he seeks to peel back the truth of the matter and the rationale for what might have happened. Beginning his conversations with others, Dr. Taiwo learns that Sade Dawodu was not popular amongst the congregants, particularly when she disappeared for long stretches and did not live under the same rules that were professed from the pulpit. This could lead to some more suspects, but Dr. Taiwo will have to act swiftly if he wants to ensure the bishop is not tried and convicted.
Sade Dawodu’s body is soon found, an apparent suicide in the water. However, some things do not match up when a pathologist takes a closer look. As Dr. Taiwo’s gut feelings lead him to feel there is more to the case than is being discussed, he must also stay within the lines as an investigator.
Dr. Taiwo discovers secrets that could bring the church to its knees, as he tries to spin in in such a way that the truth is sure to emerge. When he is told by the bishop and senior advisors for the church as to how he ought to proceed, Dr. Taiwo feels that his importance is not to get to the truth, but exonerate Bishop Dawodu at any cost. This does bode well for a man who has always used truth to guide him.
Forced to push through the miasma that is cash and power, Dr. Taiwo must take a moment from his investigation to examine the weaknesses in his own family, as they are sometimes put on the back burner. He strives to forge a new and lasting relationship with his children, who have grown up in America, where they discovered a lifestyle that is vastly different from that in Nigeria. With a great deal of pressure laid at his feet, Dr. Philip Taiwo seeks to get the the heart of the matter and find truth, wherever that will take him. Femi Kayode does a wonderful job instilling many key aspects of a crime thriller and story with deep cultural roots.
Femi Kayode does a great job educating the reader to life in Nigeria, while also presenting a strong crime thriller throughout this second novel of the series. Helping those who may not have a grasp with the difference in this piece, Kayode provides a strong narrative foundation on which the story will grow. What works even better is the dual narrative perspectives, shedding additional light on Sade Dawodu’s thoughts throughout the investigation. Key cultural, political, and social aspects flavour the story from the outset and provide the reader with something stellar to enjoy as they make their way through the larger narrative. Great themes emerge, some vastly different from a Western-set novel, but others show that the struggle is real, no matter where one lives.
Characters emerge and are enriched throughout the book, giving the reader a better understanding of many beliefs and perspectives. Dr. Philip Taiwo remains front and centre in this piece, peppering the story with a few sentiments about his past, but also pulling on some of the struggles of parenting in two vastly different spheres; the rush of America and the culturally-deep Nigeria. While there are many others whose presence makes the novel great, it is the inner struggle the Taiwos face as a family that really resonated for me throughout this piece, I am eager to see if we will learn more about them in the year to come.
Plot development is essential in keeping the story strong. Kayode does so effectively, while layering some of the unique aspects of Nigerian life in this novel. There are key aspects to the case that come out with the inquisitiveness of Dr. Taiwo, but many are seen to be the same as those one might expect to find in any crime thriller with a strong storyline. I hope that others will share in my praise as we try to decipher the realities of a crime that is meant to be covered up and a powerful suspect who will stop at nothing to get the answers he wants. I am eager to see what will come with this series, as Femi Kayode has me hooked and eager to learn more.
Kudos, Mr. Kayode, for another sensational piece.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
November 29, 2023
The first book in this series, Lightseekers, was a 5-star read for me and this latest entry did not disappoint. Gaslight is an African Noir novel that deals with a missing woman from a megachurch that is possibly corrupt. What unfolds is a complex scheme with several different players and pieces involved. It’s not hard to guess what crimes the church is committing but how the story develops illustrates how evil men can be, especially under the guise of serving God. There were also some very tense action scenes peppered in with the mystery that makes you realize just how high stakes this case is for our main character. Overall, this was a fantastic story and I enjoyed reading and learning more about Nigerian culture.
April 5, 2025
Eine Superchurch in Lagos, Nigeria: Die Ehefrau des obersten Predigers verschwindet spurlos, im Haus finden sich Blutspuren, die Polizei nimmt den beliebten und einflussreichen Kirchenmann fest. Die Kirche engagiert den Psychologen und Ermittler Philip Taiwo, um ihren Prediger aus der Haft zu bekommen. Das gelingt relativ schnell. Man vermutet, dass die Ehefrau sich doch vielleicht nur abgesetzt haben könnte. Doch dann taucht plötzlich die Leiche der Vermissten auf.
Der zweite Band um den nigerianischen Ermittler Taiwo bringt den Lesern interessante Einblicke in die Machenschaften dieser riesigen unabhängigen christlichen Gemeinden in Afrika. Überhaupt überzeugt das Setting in dieser Megacity, wobei Autor Kayode hier eher die Strukturen der Sicherheitsbehörden und der oberen Mittelschicht beschreibt. Auch die familiäre Situation der Taiwos und insbesondere der Tochter Lara kommt zur Sprache: Mit Erstaunen mag man als weißer Europäer vernehmen, dass es auch in dunkelhäutigen Gesellschaften auf die richtige Pigmentierung ankommt. Alles in allem ein rundum gelungener Thriller aus Nigeria.
Der zweite Band um den nigerianischen Ermittler Taiwo bringt den Lesern interessante Einblicke in die Machenschaften dieser riesigen unabhängigen christlichen Gemeinden in Afrika. Überhaupt überzeugt das Setting in dieser Megacity, wobei Autor Kayode hier eher die Strukturen der Sicherheitsbehörden und der oberen Mittelschicht beschreibt. Auch die familiäre Situation der Taiwos und insbesondere der Tochter Lara kommt zur Sprache: Mit Erstaunen mag man als weißer Europäer vernehmen, dass es auch in dunkelhäutigen Gesellschaften auf die richtige Pigmentierung ankommt. Alles in allem ein rundum gelungener Thriller aus Nigeria.
December 1, 2023
First of all 10/10 for the audiobook, the narration is so good that it made me stick to my earpod whenever I could. I listened to it when I cooked , when I ran, whenever I could grab the audiobook I did.
That's why I was able to finish it faster than I thought I could. I would really like to thank Netgalley, Hachette Audio and mulholland books, author - Fami Kayode and narrators — Cary Hite, Yinka Ladeinde for making a book memorable and quite enjoyable.
After starting Gaslight, I came to know that this is actually second book in the series first being lightseekers. If I knew before I would have read it just to get better idea but without reading the first, you can read Gaslight as stand-alone.
Now there are many things that can be triggering to some people, like a Corrupt Church and corrupt bishop storyline. We have so many times read about such stories in news. It is surprising that how religion can make so many people blind and devout followers of disturbing practices. Kayode's views about abortion even though very brief , if one does not agree with his virtues one might dislike this book. But for me it resonated with my ideology so it wasn't an issue.
Dr Philip Taiwo, an investigation psychologist after the success of his first case is hired by a megachurch in Nigeria to unfold the mystery of disappearance of head Bishop's wife. There's a general negativity in the air for the wife -Sade Dawudo as her behaviour is not suitable for the first lady's demeanour. To be honest, I was quite impressed how women in this novels has been described. You can be overpowered and shadowed whole your life but what matters is you rise in the end above everything else. Your story can be inspiration to many.
Don't confuse me with a annihilist. To survive what I have been through,I had to believe in something. I abandoned faith in God that didn't show up for me.
I chose to belive in me.
As the mystery slowly unfolds, we come to know that waters are not as shallow as they appear. Perhaps there is depth not visible to the naked eyes even. I was totally immersed in the story till the wife is found but later as the plot thickened, it bacame slow at some points, and even not so exciting.
On the sidelines, there's story of Taiwo and his family's struggle as to settling into Nigeria after leaving states. I loved Taiwo, and Chika's character and also Taiwo's wife.
Overall a good read and totally recommended.
That's why I was able to finish it faster than I thought I could. I would really like to thank Netgalley, Hachette Audio and mulholland books, author - Fami Kayode and narrators — Cary Hite, Yinka Ladeinde for making a book memorable and quite enjoyable.
After starting Gaslight, I came to know that this is actually second book in the series first being lightseekers. If I knew before I would have read it just to get better idea but without reading the first, you can read Gaslight as stand-alone.
Now there are many things that can be triggering to some people, like a Corrupt Church and corrupt bishop storyline. We have so many times read about such stories in news. It is surprising that how religion can make so many people blind and devout followers of disturbing practices. Kayode's views about abortion even though very brief , if one does not agree with his virtues one might dislike this book. But for me it resonated with my ideology so it wasn't an issue.
Dr Philip Taiwo, an investigation psychologist after the success of his first case is hired by a megachurch in Nigeria to unfold the mystery of disappearance of head Bishop's wife. There's a general negativity in the air for the wife -Sade Dawudo as her behaviour is not suitable for the first lady's demeanour. To be honest, I was quite impressed how women in this novels has been described. You can be overpowered and shadowed whole your life but what matters is you rise in the end above everything else. Your story can be inspiration to many.
Don't confuse me with a annihilist. To survive what I have been through,I had to believe in something. I abandoned faith in God that didn't show up for me.
I chose to belive in me.
As the mystery slowly unfolds, we come to know that waters are not as shallow as they appear. Perhaps there is depth not visible to the naked eyes even. I was totally immersed in the story till the wife is found but later as the plot thickened, it bacame slow at some points, and even not so exciting.
On the sidelines, there's story of Taiwo and his family's struggle as to settling into Nigeria after leaving states. I loved Taiwo, and Chika's character and also Taiwo's wife.
Overall a good read and totally recommended.
October 26, 2023
I read this author's first book, Lightseekers, and was very impressed, so it didn't take much convincing for me to read Gaslight, the sequel. It is even better!
This story plays out in Nigeria, where a senior church official, Bishop Jeremiah Dawodu, is charged with the murder of his wife. The Bishop continues to plead innocence.
Welcome back Philip Taiwo from the first book, who is approached by his sister, a member of the Bishop's church to investigate. Philip is a renowned forensic psychologist. As the investigation plays out, Philip's own family becomes threatened when Philip is warned to drop the case.
Thrilling, fast-paced, and well written, this one will keep you burning the midnight oil. 5 stars!
This story plays out in Nigeria, where a senior church official, Bishop Jeremiah Dawodu, is charged with the murder of his wife. The Bishop continues to plead innocence.
Welcome back Philip Taiwo from the first book, who is approached by his sister, a member of the Bishop's church to investigate. Philip is a renowned forensic psychologist. As the investigation plays out, Philip's own family becomes threatened when Philip is warned to drop the case.
Thrilling, fast-paced, and well written, this one will keep you burning the midnight oil. 5 stars!
December 2, 2023
A slow burn that developed from a simple misding perspn case to a dark mystery incorporating corruption abuse and racism. I was fascinated by the characters and their intrtaction. The gormat and gradual dark receal was compelling. I really enjoyed this it toom a while to get going by i waz hooked.
Thank yoy netgallery and publisher and author for a 5 star read.
Thank yoy netgallery and publisher and author for a 5 star read.
February 21, 2024
Well written detective story and a good way to spend the time, but not something I’ll remember a month from now.
I decided to skip the first book in this series because it sounded a bit too much like the maverick not-really-a-detective-but-somehow-better-than-real-detectives trope to me, but this can easily be read as a stand-alone. Phil Taiwo is a former internal affairs unit investigator from the US, now back in his home country of Nigeria and moonlighting as a PI. He gets brought in to investigate the disappearance of a megachurch pastor’s wife.
My main issue with the story was that the Big Bad turned out to be much too big and bad and the victim too much of a martyr; until halfway through I thought the missing victim would be portrayed in a more ambivalent way, which would’ve been wayyy more interesting. It was just too black and white. I think if Kayode could find a bit more nuance, his future books would be more complex and could really set themselves apart from the usual police procedural fare, without devolving into victim blaming or excusing perpetrators.
It also had a bit of the magic CSI trope going - the main character literally says of himself that he can correctly interpret a crime scene in seconds. Well, lucky he isn’t a real detective then because defence attorneys would love this. Ambivalence, my man! Grey areas! Imperfect people!
Not sure I’ll continue the series, but I’d be interested in any stand-alones that Kayode writes.
I decided to skip the first book in this series because it sounded a bit too much like the maverick not-really-a-detective-but-somehow-better-than-real-detectives trope to me, but this can easily be read as a stand-alone. Phil Taiwo is a former internal affairs unit investigator from the US, now back in his home country of Nigeria and moonlighting as a PI. He gets brought in to investigate the disappearance of a megachurch pastor’s wife.
My main issue with the story was that the Big Bad turned out to be much too big and bad and the victim too much of a martyr; until halfway through I thought the missing victim would be portrayed in a more ambivalent way, which would’ve been wayyy more interesting. It was just too black and white. I think if Kayode could find a bit more nuance, his future books would be more complex and could really set themselves apart from the usual police procedural fare, without devolving into victim blaming or excusing perpetrators.
It also had a bit of the magic CSI trope going - the main character literally says of himself that he can correctly interpret a crime scene in seconds. Well, lucky he isn’t a real detective then because defence attorneys would love this. Ambivalence, my man! Grey areas! Imperfect people!
Not sure I’ll continue the series, but I’d be interested in any stand-alones that Kayode writes.
December 26, 2023
I enjoyed listening to the audiobook for Gaslight by Femi Kayode which is narrated by Cary Hite & Yinka Ladeinde. The story follows Philip Taiwo investigating the disappearance of the First Lady Sade Dawodu. Philip trying to decipher what happened cause the evidence isn’t matching up the death that was ruled a suicide. Follow Philip as he uncovers lies, fraud, deception, within a megachurch and police corruption as he searches for the truth. If this story peaks your interest, please check out.
December 4, 2024
¡Extraordinario! Igual que el primero.
Serenidad, inteligencia y prudencia son las mejores cualidades de la protagonista.
La inmersión en la localidad es sublime, como si estuvieras ahí.
Me recuerda mucho la experiencia de lectura con Jane Harper.
Me encantó que incluye al final una pequeña nota con la historia y origen de la tipografía utilizada.
Serenidad, inteligencia y prudencia son las mejores cualidades de la protagonista.
La inmersión en la localidad es sublime, como si estuvieras ahí.
Me recuerda mucho la experiencia de lectura con Jane Harper.
Me encantó que incluye al final una pequeña nota con la historia y origen de la tipografía utilizada.
January 6, 2024
I didn't love it. The main plot was confusing, and the subplot was unnecessary. There were also too many references to book one. And, I found it a bit difficult to understand the police hierarchy.
February 2, 2024
Kayode has pushed himself into my all time list of favorite mystery/thriller authors.
June 15, 2025
¡Extraordinario!, al igual que el primero.
Serenidad, inteligencia y prudencia son las mejores cualidades de la protagonista.
La inmersión en la localidad es sublime; como si estuvieras ahí.
Me recuerda mucho la experiencia de lectura con Jane Harper.
Me encantó que incluye al final una pequeña nota con la historia y origen de la tipografía utilizada.
Serenidad, inteligencia y prudencia son las mejores cualidades de la protagonista.
La inmersión en la localidad es sublime; como si estuvieras ahí.
Me recuerda mucho la experiencia de lectura con Jane Harper.
Me encantó que incluye al final una pequeña nota con la historia y origen de la tipografía utilizada.
October 22, 2023
I really enjoyed Lightseekers, by Femi Kayode, our introduction to investigative Psychologist, Philip Taiwo. It really hit the ground running, throwing readers into a stark and somewhat upsetting situation and barely letting up in the tension from then on in. What it also achieved was to start to introduce us to a very different culture to anything I have personally experienced, delivering a very cutting narrative on Nigeria's fraternity culture from the inside and exposing to us its dark heart. In Gas Light, the opening may not be quite as startling as its predecessor, but it is no less intriguing, slowing walking readers through what could well be one of Nigeria's most high profile arrests on record.
There is a very different tone to this book, but it still serves to expose some of the key failings of justice in Nigeria. Of the power wielded by certain individuals and how money talks. This is the story of a missing, presumed dead, MInister's wife, and of her husband who stands accused of her murder. Through investigating the disappearance of Folasade Dawodu, Philip starts to expose the many inconsistencies, and the misogyny, in the church, but although it's perhaps not too much of a stretch to imagine that organised religion could be a cloak for inherent corruption, I was definitely not prepared for what is ultimately uncovered. As the title might suggest, things within the church might not be as perfect as their online presence might suggest, and that whole sense of having the wool pulled over our eyes is rife from the start. Thankfully Philip's natural scepticism when it comes to organised religion means that his eyes remain wide open, to the dismay of many people caught in this tangled investigation.
Although the violence in this book is not as overt as in the first book, it is still there, and there is that constant sense of threat and intimidation, sometimes very transparent in nature and often in a carefully chosen word or phrase. There are direct threats against Philip and his family, but thankfully he has Chika on his side once again, a man more than capable of holding his own when the going gets tough. And tough it gets with actions of certain players not being as saintly as one might like to hope. I liked the balance that Femi Kayode has struck here between the investigation, the cerebral nature of the mind games between Philip and Bishop Dawodu, and the overt violence that is infrequent, but impactful.
Philip Taiwo is a great character, as is Chika. Philip is a scholar, and religious sceptic, a topic which is carefully explored as the story progresses. But he is also a husband and father and we learn much more of his home life and why he and his wife brought their children home from America to Nigeria. The author explores themes of prejudice and racism, something not held exclusively for white verses black. There is a rather poignant sub thread that feeds alongside the main investigation, a problem far closer to home for Philip and one that despite all of this experience as a Psychologist he is surprisingly ill equipped to deal with. It is something that will resonate with many readers I expect, and very beautifully handled. It enraged, but also, eventually, made me smile.
Another brilliant story, packed with mystery, tension, action and intensity, but balanced against a true sense of family, friendship and justice. With beautifully evocative prose, and a truly compelling story, if you loved the author's first book, I can heartily recommend this one too.
There is a very different tone to this book, but it still serves to expose some of the key failings of justice in Nigeria. Of the power wielded by certain individuals and how money talks. This is the story of a missing, presumed dead, MInister's wife, and of her husband who stands accused of her murder. Through investigating the disappearance of Folasade Dawodu, Philip starts to expose the many inconsistencies, and the misogyny, in the church, but although it's perhaps not too much of a stretch to imagine that organised religion could be a cloak for inherent corruption, I was definitely not prepared for what is ultimately uncovered. As the title might suggest, things within the church might not be as perfect as their online presence might suggest, and that whole sense of having the wool pulled over our eyes is rife from the start. Thankfully Philip's natural scepticism when it comes to organised religion means that his eyes remain wide open, to the dismay of many people caught in this tangled investigation.
Although the violence in this book is not as overt as in the first book, it is still there, and there is that constant sense of threat and intimidation, sometimes very transparent in nature and often in a carefully chosen word or phrase. There are direct threats against Philip and his family, but thankfully he has Chika on his side once again, a man more than capable of holding his own when the going gets tough. And tough it gets with actions of certain players not being as saintly as one might like to hope. I liked the balance that Femi Kayode has struck here between the investigation, the cerebral nature of the mind games between Philip and Bishop Dawodu, and the overt violence that is infrequent, but impactful.
Philip Taiwo is a great character, as is Chika. Philip is a scholar, and religious sceptic, a topic which is carefully explored as the story progresses. But he is also a husband and father and we learn much more of his home life and why he and his wife brought their children home from America to Nigeria. The author explores themes of prejudice and racism, something not held exclusively for white verses black. There is a rather poignant sub thread that feeds alongside the main investigation, a problem far closer to home for Philip and one that despite all of this experience as a Psychologist he is surprisingly ill equipped to deal with. It is something that will resonate with many readers I expect, and very beautifully handled. It enraged, but also, eventually, made me smile.
Another brilliant story, packed with mystery, tension, action and intensity, but balanced against a true sense of family, friendship and justice. With beautifully evocative prose, and a truly compelling story, if you loved the author's first book, I can heartily recommend this one too.
May 13, 2024
I respect so much of what this author tried to do here! Focusing on corrupt megachurches and public agencies is often done, but rarely done well. In Gaslight, Femi Kayode provides a fresh murder mystery that offers a simple but satisfying number of plot twists. I say “simple” because there are few developments in the book that someone who reads lots of these books wouldn’t see coming. However, Kayode executes these fairly standard mystery sequences well enough that they are still enjoyable.
The other main thing I appreciated about Gaslight is how it seeks to correct failures within the romantic subplots of most mystery novels. When reading authors like S.A. Cosby, whose books I otherwise enjoy, I’m often frustrated by their lack luster characterization of female characters. It never fails to amaze me that mystery authors who can chart out a whole world of complex industry schemes and assassin subplots seem to lose all of these skills when it’s time to flesh out the “leading lady that our detective just wants to make it home to each night.” While Phillip and Folake’s relationship certainly has elements of this patriarchal protector thing going on, I was really impressed by the passages showing Folake’s exasperation with her husband. This is a man who has chosen a line of work that puts his family in harm’s way, but also believes that he should not have to warn his life partner about said harm—how does that make any sense?!? It doesn’t, but it’s something that even my favorite mystery authors, like Attica Locke, love to play into.
In Gaslight, Kayode tears apart the fallacies of these protector myths, and how they hinge on hermeneutical injustice, a topic I learned about while reading Ace by Angela Chen. It is a cruel disservice to keep the people you love from having the necessary information to make decisions about their own safety—one might even say this is its own form of gaslighting. However, in so many mystery novels, this withholding of information is driven by the detective’s misogynistic complex that they will be able to save their wives and families from the danger before anyone has to know about it. Instead of reinforcing this flawed logic by having “everything work out in the end”, Kayode uses the character of Folake to directly interrogate this protector myth. Well done, I say!!
Other than that, I think you’ll enjoy this book if you enjoy the genre, but won’t find it to be your favorite story ever or anything. Some of the reveals are introduced too late in the story for my liking, but they’re still mostly smart choices to move the story forward. I expect most readers will roll their eyes through the narrator’s trite gripes about RAisInG bLaCk sOnS iN aMeRiCa, but I thought the subplot about how colorism oppresses young girls even in all-Black countries was pretty thoughtful (if too easily resolved.) For every item that was unremarkable here, there is something else that kept me reading. So, I would recommend to readers, though potentially on like a 2.5-star basis.
The other main thing I appreciated about Gaslight is how it seeks to correct failures within the romantic subplots of most mystery novels. When reading authors like S.A. Cosby, whose books I otherwise enjoy, I’m often frustrated by their lack luster characterization of female characters. It never fails to amaze me that mystery authors who can chart out a whole world of complex industry schemes and assassin subplots seem to lose all of these skills when it’s time to flesh out the “leading lady that our detective just wants to make it home to each night.” While Phillip and Folake’s relationship certainly has elements of this patriarchal protector thing going on, I was really impressed by the passages showing Folake’s exasperation with her husband. This is a man who has chosen a line of work that puts his family in harm’s way, but also believes that he should not have to warn his life partner about said harm—how does that make any sense?!? It doesn’t, but it’s something that even my favorite mystery authors, like Attica Locke, love to play into.
In Gaslight, Kayode tears apart the fallacies of these protector myths, and how they hinge on hermeneutical injustice, a topic I learned about while reading Ace by Angela Chen. It is a cruel disservice to keep the people you love from having the necessary information to make decisions about their own safety—one might even say this is its own form of gaslighting. However, in so many mystery novels, this withholding of information is driven by the detective’s misogynistic complex that they will be able to save their wives and families from the danger before anyone has to know about it. Instead of reinforcing this flawed logic by having “everything work out in the end”, Kayode uses the character of Folake to directly interrogate this protector myth. Well done, I say!!
Other than that, I think you’ll enjoy this book if you enjoy the genre, but won’t find it to be your favorite story ever or anything. Some of the reveals are introduced too late in the story for my liking, but they’re still mostly smart choices to move the story forward. I expect most readers will roll their eyes through the narrator’s trite gripes about RAisInG bLaCk sOnS iN aMeRiCa, but I thought the subplot about how colorism oppresses young girls even in all-Black countries was pretty thoughtful (if too easily resolved.) For every item that was unremarkable here, there is something else that kept me reading. So, I would recommend to readers, though potentially on like a 2.5-star basis.
November 10, 2023
Almost a year after the first case, Dr Philip Taiwo is asked by his sister to investigate the disappearance of a pastor's wife. Bishop Jeremiah Dawodu, head of Grace Church, has been arrested and charged with the murder of his wife, Folasade. Dawodu & those around him maintain that it is all a misunderstanding & that his wife often goes on retreat from the pressures of her public life & that she will turn up unharmed at any moment. Philip agrees to take the case mostly for his sister's benefit, & begins to investigate. Just as he is reaching agreement that Sade Dawodu is probably still alive & the case against her husband falsified, Sade's body is found in a nearby lake. Was it suicide, an accident, or murder? Why were the police so intent on blaming her husband? Why do the church now want him to stop investigating? As he begins to answer some of these questions, Philip faces a threat to his family's safety.
As with the first book, this is not an action=packed pacy thriller, it's a slow build look at the moral decay that can hide below the polished surface. The storyline deals with the 'mega-churches', racism, & police corruption in Nigeria & the proverbial 'wolves in sheep's clothing'. It didn't grab the attention initially like the first book, but the main story was interesting, alongside other peripheral storylines involving the family. The reader even gets to briefly see the catalyst for the family's return to Nigeria from the US in a short flashback. Although the slow pace may not be to everyone's taste, I think this is a series which could keep developing & I'm happy to spend more time with Dr Taiwo & his family.
TWs: violence, death, torture, mention of suicide, sexual assault, racism.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Bloomsbury Publishing PLC/Raven Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
As with the first book, this is not an action=packed pacy thriller, it's a slow build look at the moral decay that can hide below the polished surface. The storyline deals with the 'mega-churches', racism, & police corruption in Nigeria & the proverbial 'wolves in sheep's clothing'. It didn't grab the attention initially like the first book, but the main story was interesting, alongside other peripheral storylines involving the family. The reader even gets to briefly see the catalyst for the family's return to Nigeria from the US in a short flashback. Although the slow pace may not be to everyone's taste, I think this is a series which could keep developing & I'm happy to spend more time with Dr Taiwo & his family.
TWs: violence, death, torture, mention of suicide, sexual assault, racism.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Bloomsbury Publishing PLC/Raven Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
January 20, 2025
Although this author is new to me, I was intrigued by the setting, Nigeria, and main character, Philip Taiwo, an investigative psychologist. Taiwo, his wife, and children have come home after living several years in America to immerse themselves in their Nigerian culture. When a local megachurch’s pastor, Bishop Dawodu’s wife goes missing, Dawodu is publicly arrested and Taiwo is asked to investigate. What appeared to be a case of misinformation, soon becomes a question of murder/suicide of Dawodu’s wife, Sade. From this point, the story becomes quite complex with the church elders trying to protect their pastor and the police working to uncover the dark secrets of this “holy” man. As Taiwo discovers corruption in both the police and church, he also investigates the relationship between the Bishop and Sade. Shocking information gradually comes to light revealing patriarchal attitudes toward women and the ensuing violence perpetrated against them. This novel has a dark nature that is frustrating and disturbing. However, the author skillfully untangles the web of lies, deceit, and corruption to uncover the suspected corruption and weed out the guilty party. I found this book to be thoroughly engaging and enjoyed this peek into Nigerian culture while solving a complex mystery.
January 9, 2024
My thanks to the Publishers via NetGalley for a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review. This is the second in the Philip Taiwo series, that begins with the Lightseekers. I haven't read that one, but my enjoyment of reading Gaslight was in no way impaired with not having had any back story about the characters.
When Bishop Dawodu is arrested for the murder of his wife, some questions need answering as their appears to be no body! What is happening? Has she been killed? Has she committed suicide? Where is the body? With so many questions needing answers, help is needed.
When Philip Taiwo an investigative psychologist is approached to help by his sister, he is loathe to get involved as he isn't fond of organised religion and all that it involves. However, he is keen to help out his sister and it's not long before he finds himself amidst the goings on.
I enjoyed this read that was set in Nigeria, the reader was soon embroiled among the action that is taking place and you are left wondering who can be trusted. I know that I was well and truly their with them all.
When Bishop Dawodu is arrested for the murder of his wife, some questions need answering as their appears to be no body! What is happening? Has she been killed? Has she committed suicide? Where is the body? With so many questions needing answers, help is needed.
When Philip Taiwo an investigative psychologist is approached to help by his sister, he is loathe to get involved as he isn't fond of organised religion and all that it involves. However, he is keen to help out his sister and it's not long before he finds himself amidst the goings on.
I enjoyed this read that was set in Nigeria, the reader was soon embroiled among the action that is taking place and you are left wondering who can be trusted. I know that I was well and truly their with them all.
November 6, 2023
Thank you to the author, publishers Raven Books and NetGalley UK for access to this as an advance reader’s ebook. This is an honest and voluntary review.
Investigative psychologist Philip Taiwo returns. This time trying to see past his own bad experience of churches to help discover what has happened to the bishop’s wife at his sister’s church. Once again he has to combat corruption and secrecy in sections of Nigerian society who would rather he didn’t discover their secrets.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Lightseekers. Philip’s experience of working with American police means he brings a mix of outsider perspective and insider knowledge that makes it easier for me as someone with no firsthand knowledge of the Nigerian settings of the books feel like I am welcome as a reader.
This sequel spends more time exploring both why the Taiwos have returned to Nigeria, and the impact the move has had on the family. I actually would have enjoyed more of this.
The main investigation plot doesn’t shy away from being complicated, so make sure you’re paying attention when reading. In saying that it’s not over complicated and does make sense.
Investigative psychologist Philip Taiwo returns. This time trying to see past his own bad experience of churches to help discover what has happened to the bishop’s wife at his sister’s church. Once again he has to combat corruption and secrecy in sections of Nigerian society who would rather he didn’t discover their secrets.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Lightseekers. Philip’s experience of working with American police means he brings a mix of outsider perspective and insider knowledge that makes it easier for me as someone with no firsthand knowledge of the Nigerian settings of the books feel like I am welcome as a reader.
This sequel spends more time exploring both why the Taiwos have returned to Nigeria, and the impact the move has had on the family. I actually would have enjoyed more of this.
The main investigation plot doesn’t shy away from being complicated, so make sure you’re paying attention when reading. In saying that it’s not over complicated and does make sense.
Read
October 20, 2023Told from the perspective of Philip Taiwo, an investigative journalilst, he has been brought in to investigate a missing person case after the wife of a high profile Nigerian pastor disappears. At first Bishop Jeremiah Dawodu comes across as charismatic and charming, but as a body is discovered in a lake nearby and Philip keeps digging, just what will he uncover?
This is the second book in the Philip Taiwo series. I haven't read the first and beyond not being familiar with the returning characters this didn't affect the enjoyment of this book, which works well as a standalone novel.
There were some great characters, Philip's wife Folake and their daughter Lara had a great side-plot which was interesting and emotive. I liked Chika and would like to read the first story and learn more about him and his family.
I found the story very believable about how far people are prepared to go to protect their church and the corruption within.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the Philip Taiwo series. I haven't read the first and beyond not being familiar with the returning characters this didn't affect the enjoyment of this book, which works well as a standalone novel.
There were some great characters, Philip's wife Folake and their daughter Lara had a great side-plot which was interesting and emotive. I liked Chika and would like to read the first story and learn more about him and his family.
I found the story very believable about how far people are prepared to go to protect their church and the corruption within.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. The wife of a prominent minister in Nigeria goes missing and our protagonist is brought in to help investigate what happened to her. A lot of muck rises to the surface and danger presents itself as the truth threatens to come out. The whole mega church scandal aspect is total catnip to me; I love seeing self righteous people crash and burn. The case itself got a little convoluted as things progressed; and some of the side storylines about the protagonist’s family life felt a bit unrelated (even though I still genuinely enjoyed that added character depth). I didn’t read the first in this series so this was my introduction and I will definitely keep my eyes peeled for future installments. There were a lot of lines I highlighted and nuanced discussion around religious disillusionment that I think many today will find incredibly relevant. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy!
January 21, 2024
This is a powerful thriller set in Nigeria where a police detective who’s recently moved from the States is called to investigate the disappearance of the wife of a prominent church leader. Very quickly you learn that not all is as it seems, but getting to the truth isn’t straightforward for Detective Philip Taiwo, who’s also managing his family’s transition to living in a new country (which doesn’t come without its own challenges).
I loved the insight it provided into the Nigerian culture, and this was helped by the excellent narration of the audio book.
It’s a well-paced, well-structured story which pulls you in, with plenty of colourful characters who’ll keep you guessing.
This is the second Philip Taiwo book, And while I haven’t read the first, I didn’t find this an issue as the story reads perfectly well as a standalone.
With big thanks to Bloomsbury U.K. audio and NetGalley for the chance to listen to an ARC.
I loved the insight it provided into the Nigerian culture, and this was helped by the excellent narration of the audio book.
It’s a well-paced, well-structured story which pulls you in, with plenty of colourful characters who’ll keep you guessing.
This is the second Philip Taiwo book, And while I haven’t read the first, I didn’t find this an issue as the story reads perfectly well as a standalone.
With big thanks to Bloomsbury U.K. audio and NetGalley for the chance to listen to an ARC.
November 7, 2023
So…. I did NOT know that this was a sequel or part of a series, and now it all makes sense. We have multiple MCs, but ultimately this is a detective novel where our lead detective is trying to solve the disappearance and murder of a well-known and loved “First Lady” of a church in Lagos, Nigeria. Everyone immediately panics, because no man of GOD could be responsible for such a heinous crime, but as time goes on, the suspect seems to be none other than this church’s head pastor.
This one read like a Christian thriller, which is not my go-to or ever anything I’d want to read, because of it being what it is. I am still really thankful to Hachette Audio, the author and Netgalley for granting me advanced audio access to this one before it hits shelves on November 21, 2023.
This one read like a Christian thriller, which is not my go-to or ever anything I’d want to read, because of it being what it is. I am still really thankful to Hachette Audio, the author and Netgalley for granting me advanced audio access to this one before it hits shelves on November 21, 2023.
December 5, 2023
When I started Gaslight I had no idea that this was a follow-up to this author's first novel. This book had me hooked from the beginning! An alleged megachurch murder committed by the Senior Pastor. The pastors wife has vanished without a trace. However, there are questions about the wife...did she just walk away on her own accord or could there be something a little more sinister taking place. What unfolds is a complex scheme with several different players and pieces involved. Now, I have to go back and read the 1st book. Femi Kayode has a great future as an author ahead of her and I am looking forward to her next installment! #netgalley #Gaslight
September 21, 2023
This book is a slow burner at first, the opening sequence is designed as an attention grabber but slightly missed the mark for me.
It does ramp up after the first third and I found myself wanting to know where the story was going.
The narrative is very well written and the characters were interesting.
The main themes of politics, race, family and culture were well woven into the story and the Lagos setting came alive in many scenes.
Overall I enjoyed it and it felt quite different to things I have previously read.
It does ramp up after the first third and I found myself wanting to know where the story was going.
The narrative is very well written and the characters were interesting.
The main themes of politics, race, family and culture were well woven into the story and the Lagos setting came alive in many scenes.
Overall I enjoyed it and it felt quite different to things I have previously read.
December 8, 2023
Gaslight by Femi Kayode is an intense thriller that really hits the mark! Dr Philip Taiwo reluctantly agrees to help with the investigation into the disappearance of a leading church figure at the request of his sister but when this takes a sinister turn, Philip finds himself in a very dangerous predicament unsure of who he can trust.
I really enjoyed reading this tense, original thriller and will look out for more from this author in future.
I really enjoyed reading this tense, original thriller and will look out for more from this author in future.
February 28, 2025
Really exciting part, couldn't put the book down!
I absolutely love the setting of this book series, I already liked it in the first part. The characters are also very cool (I really like Folake) and they harmonise very well with each other.
The story was also very varied, especially with the setting in Nigeria, which is something I've never read before.
I would definitely be up for a third part!
I absolutely love the setting of this book series, I already liked it in the first part. The characters are also very cool (I really like Folake) and they harmonise very well with each other.
The story was also very varied, especially with the setting in Nigeria, which is something I've never read before.
I would definitely be up for a third part!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews