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Nightbloom
Growing up in the same Ghanaian town, Selasi and Akorfa are more than just cousins – they’re best friends. The girls share whispered late-night conversations, dreams for the future, secrets.
But as they enter their teens, Selasi begins to change, construction a wall around herself designed to keep everyone away. Soon, Akorfa no longer recognises her sullen, withdrawn cousin.
It will take many years for their paths to cross again. Their lives may have drifted in different directions, but Selasi and Akorfa haven’t forgotten the closeness they once shared. Akorfa now works in international development as she navigates the challenges of life as a Black woman and mother in the US; Selasi is a successful restaurateur running the hottest spot in Accra. And when an incident at her restaurant puts Selasi in danger, the women must overcome their differences and face the truth of what happened all those years ago, even if others would prefer them to remain silent.
Nightbloom is an irresistible story about female friendship, about the relationships that shape us and the people we never quite leave behind.
But as they enter their teens, Selasi begins to change, construction a wall around herself designed to keep everyone away. Soon, Akorfa no longer recognises her sullen, withdrawn cousin.
It will take many years for their paths to cross again. Their lives may have drifted in different directions, but Selasi and Akorfa haven’t forgotten the closeness they once shared. Akorfa now works in international development as she navigates the challenges of life as a Black woman and mother in the US; Selasi is a successful restaurateur running the hottest spot in Accra. And when an incident at her restaurant puts Selasi in danger, the women must overcome their differences and face the truth of what happened all those years ago, even if others would prefer them to remain silent.
Nightbloom is an irresistible story about female friendship, about the relationships that shape us and the people we never quite leave behind.
368 pages, Paperback
First published June 13, 2023
160 people are currently reading
14447 people want to read
About the author
Peace Adzo Medie
4 books566 followersPeace Adzo Medie is a Ghanaian writer and senior lecturer in gender and international politics at the University of Bristol in England. Prior to that she was a research fellow at the University of Ghana. She has published several short stories, and her book Global Norms and Local Action: The Campaigns to End Violence Against Women in Africa was published by Oxford University Press in 2020. She is an award-winning scholar and has been awarded several fellowships. She holds a PhD in public and international affairs from the University of Pittsburgh and a BA in geography from the University of Ghana. She was born in Liberia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 549 reviews
July 10, 2025
4.5 stars
I ended up loving this book! The novel follows Selasi and Akorfa, two best friends growing up in the same Ghanian town. Even though their families come from different class backgrounds, the two are inseparable, confiding in one another about everything and spending all their free time together. But as they enter their teen years, Selasi starts to change, and soon the girls’ friendship drifts further rand further from what it used to be. It isn’t until many years later that a tragedy brings Akorfa and Selasi back into each other’s lives.
Though the prose in Nightbloom took me a little time to get into, by about 40% in I was hooked. I really liked how Peace Adzo Medie wrote each of these characters’ coming-of-age stories, centering their unique voices and desires while showing the contextual influence of gender, race, and class. One of the things I found most remarkable about this book was how Medie told the same story twice, through the perspective of Akorfa and then Selasi. This narrative choice felt unique and risky yet worked super well, highlighting how two people can perceive the same events so differently based on familial influence and varying levels of privilege.
By the end of the book I was cheering for both Selasi and Akorfa; I felt genuinely moved by the last few chapters. Medie does an excellent job of highlighting how patriarchy, classism, and racism affect her characters’ lives, while still centering her characters’ journeys and not distracting readers with too-obvious messages about society. I loved the complexity in which Medie wrote about both Ghana and female friendship – the novel felt sufficiently nuanced and the ending, while hopeful, wasn’t unrealistically cheerful.
A bit torn on how to round but deciding to round up because even though the prose took me a little time to adjust to, this book has so many wonderful strengths. I’d recommend it to those interested in novels about female friendship and how social structures affect our day-to-day lives!
I ended up loving this book! The novel follows Selasi and Akorfa, two best friends growing up in the same Ghanian town. Even though their families come from different class backgrounds, the two are inseparable, confiding in one another about everything and spending all their free time together. But as they enter their teen years, Selasi starts to change, and soon the girls’ friendship drifts further rand further from what it used to be. It isn’t until many years later that a tragedy brings Akorfa and Selasi back into each other’s lives.
Though the prose in Nightbloom took me a little time to get into, by about 40% in I was hooked. I really liked how Peace Adzo Medie wrote each of these characters’ coming-of-age stories, centering their unique voices and desires while showing the contextual influence of gender, race, and class. One of the things I found most remarkable about this book was how Medie told the same story twice, through the perspective of Akorfa and then Selasi. This narrative choice felt unique and risky yet worked super well, highlighting how two people can perceive the same events so differently based on familial influence and varying levels of privilege.
By the end of the book I was cheering for both Selasi and Akorfa; I felt genuinely moved by the last few chapters. Medie does an excellent job of highlighting how patriarchy, classism, and racism affect her characters’ lives, while still centering her characters’ journeys and not distracting readers with too-obvious messages about society. I loved the complexity in which Medie wrote about both Ghana and female friendship – the novel felt sufficiently nuanced and the ending, while hopeful, wasn’t unrealistically cheerful.
A bit torn on how to round but deciding to round up because even though the prose took me a little time to adjust to, this book has so many wonderful strengths. I’d recommend it to those interested in novels about female friendship and how social structures affect our day-to-day lives!
October 21, 2023
Peace Medie is born storyteller, who you cannot help but remain in awe of!
I absolutely loved HIS OWN WIFE so when I saw she wrote a second book I was excited and I wasn’t disappointed…that much!
In Nightbloom we are taken to Ghana where we meet two families who are bonded together by the mothers friendship which spills over to the daughters becoming inseparable. We meet Selasi and Akorfa, who grew up very close, their mothers were best of friends so it was inevitable they would be friends.
Akora was the shy one, always observant and taken to reading her book. Selasi was the more outgoing and fun one who Akora followed around. Akora’s parents ensured she got the best of everything especially in education- not matter the cost, it also helped that they had the financial means. Selasi did not go well in school but her parents ensured she was given the best. In a twist of events Selasi loses her mother and everything goes downhill from there. The friendship she thought she had with her friend, turned sour and their lives went in different directions. What will it take to bring them back together?
Told from the perspective of Akora and Selasi, we get layered look into motherhood, friendships, mother-daughter relationships, grief, sexual assault and being Black in America.
You can tell a Peace Media book from anywhere, the prose is layered, starts of slow and builds to a crescendo and that is exactly what happened here. I loved that we hear the stories from each character POV and I think that’s what made the book so good. There were certain parts where the book dragged and it felt very preachy, I also feel the battle with Selasi and the minister could have been shorter to make space for the friendship.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read!
I absolutely loved HIS OWN WIFE so when I saw she wrote a second book I was excited and I wasn’t disappointed…that much!
In Nightbloom we are taken to Ghana where we meet two families who are bonded together by the mothers friendship which spills over to the daughters becoming inseparable. We meet Selasi and Akorfa, who grew up very close, their mothers were best of friends so it was inevitable they would be friends.
Akora was the shy one, always observant and taken to reading her book. Selasi was the more outgoing and fun one who Akora followed around. Akora’s parents ensured she got the best of everything especially in education- not matter the cost, it also helped that they had the financial means. Selasi did not go well in school but her parents ensured she was given the best. In a twist of events Selasi loses her mother and everything goes downhill from there. The friendship she thought she had with her friend, turned sour and their lives went in different directions. What will it take to bring them back together?
Told from the perspective of Akora and Selasi, we get layered look into motherhood, friendships, mother-daughter relationships, grief, sexual assault and being Black in America.
You can tell a Peace Media book from anywhere, the prose is layered, starts of slow and builds to a crescendo and that is exactly what happened here. I loved that we hear the stories from each character POV and I think that’s what made the book so good. There were certain parts where the book dragged and it felt very preachy, I also feel the battle with Selasi and the minister could have been shorter to make space for the friendship.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read!
June 1, 2023
Libro.fm ALC*
I actually really liked this! It was a very bold choice to split the POVs that way, but I think it actually worked really well. The contrast between the two parts really showed how much your education, privilege and other people’s influences shape the way you see things. The female characters were all strong in their own way and they felt like real people. I really recommend the audiobook!
I actually really liked this! It was a very bold choice to split the POVs that way, but I think it actually worked really well. The contrast between the two parts really showed how much your education, privilege and other people’s influences shape the way you see things. The female characters were all strong in their own way and they felt like real people. I really recommend the audiobook!
September 12, 2023
Nightbloom is a tale of strength that comes in different forms, of hurt that gets passed down the generations, of family and community and how there's value in more than one form of them. It's emotionally rich and nuanced and the writing style makes it a very pleasant read.
I wasn't sold on the structure (same story from 2 different points of view) of this one until we got to Selasi's point of view but when we got there it made sense and it was just so good. I absolutely adored Selasi and I rooted for her so much it hurt.
I wasn't sold on the structure (same story from 2 different points of view) of this one until we got to Selasi's point of view but when we got there it made sense and it was just so good. I absolutely adored Selasi and I rooted for her so much it hurt.
June 9, 2023
Actual Rating: 3.25 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Solid story but a bit frustrating with the format. However I think this would be a good choice for book clubs because there are many themes to discuss in the book!
So I actually overall enjoyed the story BUT I would have liked it a lot more if it had been told differently. The story is told in 3 parts 👉🏽 from the POV of Akorfa (the first 45%), from the POV of Selasi (the second 45%) and then from both Akorfa & Selasi's POV (in the last 10%). The reason, I didn't like this is primarily because it essentially started all over from the beginning when it switched to Selasi's POV. It just would have helped so much more to see how they both viewed the same events at the same time instead of going through Akorfa's entire story before switching vantage point. The chapters were long and covered a large span of time and breaking it up would’ve helped me.
Now, Akorfa wasn't the most likeable character and her mom was even worse. Even though I can understand her hesitance with her in-laws, she was very extreme and contradicted herself. Unfortunately, she never redeemed herself or even showed any remorse. which sucks because even though this is a reality for many people, it's still very sad to witness. Many parts of Akorfa's story felt like it dragged and since I already didn't connect with her, I didn't feel bad for her. Especially after she
Selasi, on the other hand, I immediately liked. With her story starting over in the middle of the book, I felt that many parts were skipped in her experience. I also disliked how angry she stayed when She deserved a better story through & through!
I will say that reading this story gave me an appreciation for my family and the way that we respond and handle certain situations. But I get it, cultural differences can truly take a toll on your life views + how you interact with people in this world. I just wanted to see so much more triumph and happiness for either of them.
But, isn’t it so crazy how everyone has their own versions of a story? That's what this book left me with. I've always heard that there's three sides to a story, and that's exactly what Nightbloom gave. Akorfa's version, Selasi's version and the truth. It's up to the reader to determine what they version they believe.
Thank you to Netgalley and Algonquin Books for the ARC version in exchange for an honest review.
Solid story but a bit frustrating with the format. However I think this would be a good choice for book clubs because there are many themes to discuss in the book!
So I actually overall enjoyed the story BUT I would have liked it a lot more if it had been told differently. The story is told in 3 parts 👉🏽 from the POV of Akorfa (the first 45%), from the POV of Selasi (the second 45%) and then from both Akorfa & Selasi's POV (in the last 10%). The reason, I didn't like this is primarily because it essentially started all over from the beginning when it switched to Selasi's POV. It just would have helped so much more to see how they both viewed the same events at the same time instead of going through Akorfa's entire story before switching vantage point. The chapters were long and covered a large span of time and breaking it up would’ve helped me.
Now, Akorfa wasn't the most likeable character and her mom was even worse. Even though I can understand her hesitance with her in-laws, she was very extreme and contradicted herself. Unfortunately, she never redeemed herself or even showed any remorse. which sucks because even though this is a reality for many people, it's still very sad to witness. Many parts of Akorfa's story felt like it dragged and since I already didn't connect with her, I didn't feel bad for her. Especially after she
Selasi, on the other hand, I immediately liked. With her story starting over in the middle of the book, I felt that many parts were skipped in her experience. I also disliked how angry she stayed when She deserved a better story through & through!
I will say that reading this story gave me an appreciation for my family and the way that we respond and handle certain situations. But I get it, cultural differences can truly take a toll on your life views + how you interact with people in this world. I just wanted to see so much more triumph and happiness for either of them.
But, isn’t it so crazy how everyone has their own versions of a story? That's what this book left me with. I've always heard that there's three sides to a story, and that's exactly what Nightbloom gave. Akorfa's version, Selasi's version and the truth. It's up to the reader to determine what they version they believe.
Thank you to Netgalley and Algonquin Books for the ARC version in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2024
An engaging story of the lives of two Ghanaian women, the more privileged one immigrating to the U.S. while the other makes a life at home. I enjoyed this, though it comes across as not quite sure what it’s trying to be, as some major elements seem to undermine others. In some ways it does a strong job with unreliable narration, though in others it left me wanting more. It feels like a great introduction to Ghanaian culture though, immersing the reader while not explaining everything for foreigners, and taking an honest (if sometimes preachy) look at problems in both Ghana and the U.S.
First off, this is definitely not a story about “the unbreakable power of female friendship.” Its two narrators, Akorfa and Selasi, are cousins who are best friends as children, but their friendship shatters when they hit their teenage years, they spend the next two decades estranged, and their partial and tentative reconciliation at the end stops well short of real friendship, as the book explicitly acknowledges. Their family relationship, and similarities in their life trajectories, make sense of why they’re in the same book. To be clear, I don’t object to the lack of the idealization—close childhood friendships often don’t last—but the marketing is off.
Both characters’ stories are told in the first person, Akorfa’s claiming the first 137 pages, followed by Selasi, who narrates the rest (but for a brief third-person segment at the end). Unlike some other reviewers, I think this structure, rather than alternating between the two, works well: Akorfa is a wildly unreliable narrator, and being stuck with her builds anticipation and gives us time to start seeing through her. That said, but for Akorfa’s greater tendency toward self-righteousness and fault-finding, the voices are similar. And while the fact that we can see through Akorfa is a testament to strong writing, much of what we learn from Selasi I had already deduced. It’s also a bit weird to have one unreliable narrator paired with one who seems completely reliable, as if Selasi has no blind spots of her own (though perhaps we were meant to question —this seems awfully extreme for even Akorfa not to have noticed, and for Selasi not to have mentioned to other relatives). The third-person section at the end also didn’t feel quite objective enough to me to justify that shift.
Meanwhile, the book seems inconsistent in how seriously we are supposed to take the characters and their problems. Its depiction of Ghanaian society is one featuring high levels of confrontation alongside a national obsession with status and respect—hence, much of the story consists of high-octane petty drama, as self-righteous people with no perspective froth with outrage at others’ behavior, often before turning around to behave the same way themselves. Akorfa and her mother (with whom she’s closely aligned) are hypocritical and self-centered drama llamas, which resulted in my not being sure how seriously to take Akorfa when she’s faced with more serious issues. I was also disappointed to see no growth from her, as at the end the book seems to minimize her self-absorption in favor of her identity as victim.
Meanwhile, there’s nothing petty or narcissistic about the big drama of Selasi’s section, a high-stakes public conflict in which she confronts a government minister engaged in sexual predation. I was wholly on her side here, cheering on her speaking truth to power and a bit stressed out by the situation myself! Which goes on for 55 pages, which seems long for its role in the novel. At any rate, it’s a strange thing to pair with a lot of over-the-top petty drama in which everyone is being unreasonable.
In the end, I did mostly like the book: it’s fast, engaging and immersive reading, and the immersion in Ghanaian culture was fun if exhausting. I wouldn’t seek out more from this author, but check it out if it sounds like your thing.
First off, this is definitely not a story about “the unbreakable power of female friendship.” Its two narrators, Akorfa and Selasi, are cousins who are best friends as children, but their friendship shatters when they hit their teenage years, they spend the next two decades estranged, and their partial and tentative reconciliation at the end stops well short of real friendship, as the book explicitly acknowledges. Their family relationship, and similarities in their life trajectories, make sense of why they’re in the same book. To be clear, I don’t object to the lack of the idealization—close childhood friendships often don’t last—but the marketing is off.
Both characters’ stories are told in the first person, Akorfa’s claiming the first 137 pages, followed by Selasi, who narrates the rest (but for a brief third-person segment at the end). Unlike some other reviewers, I think this structure, rather than alternating between the two, works well: Akorfa is a wildly unreliable narrator, and being stuck with her builds anticipation and gives us time to start seeing through her. That said, but for Akorfa’s greater tendency toward self-righteousness and fault-finding, the voices are similar. And while the fact that we can see through Akorfa is a testament to strong writing, much of what we learn from Selasi I had already deduced. It’s also a bit weird to have one unreliable narrator paired with one who seems completely reliable, as if Selasi has no blind spots of her own (though perhaps we were meant to question —this seems awfully extreme for even Akorfa not to have noticed, and for Selasi not to have mentioned to other relatives). The third-person section at the end also didn’t feel quite objective enough to me to justify that shift.
Meanwhile, the book seems inconsistent in how seriously we are supposed to take the characters and their problems. Its depiction of Ghanaian society is one featuring high levels of confrontation alongside a national obsession with status and respect—hence, much of the story consists of high-octane petty drama, as self-righteous people with no perspective froth with outrage at others’ behavior, often before turning around to behave the same way themselves. Akorfa and her mother (with whom she’s closely aligned) are hypocritical and self-centered drama llamas, which resulted in my not being sure how seriously to take Akorfa when she’s faced with more serious issues. I was also disappointed to see no growth from her, as at the end the book seems to minimize her self-absorption in favor of her identity as victim.
Meanwhile, there’s nothing petty or narcissistic about the big drama of Selasi’s section, a high-stakes public conflict in which she confronts a government minister engaged in sexual predation. I was wholly on her side here, cheering on her speaking truth to power and a bit stressed out by the situation myself! Which goes on for 55 pages, which seems long for its role in the novel. At any rate, it’s a strange thing to pair with a lot of over-the-top petty drama in which everyone is being unreasonable.
In the end, I did mostly like the book: it’s fast, engaging and immersive reading, and the immersion in Ghanaian culture was fun if exhausting. I wouldn’t seek out more from this author, but check it out if it sounds like your thing.
June 6, 2023
This is a must-read!! This book hooked me from the first page and made me feel so many emotions. The voice and characters are so strong and vibrant. The writing is beautiful but flows easily and isn’t too flowery. There are lots of complex family dynamics and two strong female main characters which made the story really interesting with different views/perspectives and conflicts. I really enjoy reading stories about women’s issues and especially black women’s issues. Stories like this have helped me grow so much over the last few years. Although this is fiction, this story reflects real life and reminds me of books like Unbound by Tarana Burke (non-fiction) and The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett (fiction but also had that “real life” feel). This book deals with topics such as racism, classism, misogyny, Ghanaian culture, friendship, family loyalty, politics, societal expectations and many more (TW for SA!!). I love this quote in the synopsis and I think it sums it up perfectly. “Nightbloom is above all a gripping and beautifully written novel attesting to the strength of female bonds in the face of societies that would prefer to silence women.”
Thank you to Netgalley, Algonquin Books and Peace Adzo Medie for this ARC ebook. Nightbloom will be published June 13, 2023.
Thank you to Netgalley, Algonquin Books and Peace Adzo Medie for this ARC ebook. Nightbloom will be published June 13, 2023.
March 22, 2024
I persevered with this one but found the writing style too superficial. I didn't really like the characters and the plot was boring with occasional moments of something a bit more engaging. I didn't like His Only Wife either so I don't think this author is for me.
April 5, 2024
Peace Adzo Medie’s second novel, Nightbloom, tackles many many topical issues via the two main protagonists, Akorfa and her cousin Selasi. The book itself is divided into three sections. The first half is Akorfa story, the second part is Selasi’s story, the last bit consists of both them together.
Akorfa grows up in a upper middle class household, has a good education and is a promising student. Her closest friend is her cousin Selasi, who is the exact opposite of her, yet despite separations they have a bond. There are quite a few nudges towards Ghanian politics but the emphasis is on these character’s friendship.
When Akorfa manages to study in the states, the books themes start going into gear and she encounters different forms of racism. Sometimes it is blatant, sometimes it is subtle (I personally was shocked to see that people believe that Africa is only dominated by jungle) but it affects her whole working life, Despite being known as land of the free, for Akorfa, living in The States is a hassle. Things take a sinister turn when a relative abuses Akorfa, which a theme which is expanded on in the Selasi narrative. One last thing which impressed me as well in this part was that one student is the daughter of a politician who uses national funds in order to pay for his daughters education which results in poor roads and buildings in that particular village.
Selasi’s story correlates with Akorfa’s until they leave school and Selasi works as a waitress, There a worker is sexually abused by a major politician and her narrative is dominated by her attempts to seek justice for this worker, As it happens, men in power will stick up for their, making Selasi’s mission a frustrating one.
When both characters meet again more secrets emerge but it also shows how their friendship is.
Generally when a book has so many themes, I am put off as I feel that they lose their meaning but here it works. Peace Adzo Medie not only goes into detail with the topics discussed but enlightens the reader in the process. Not to mention the readable style which helps cement these important issues even more.
Nightbloom is a novel which is an eye opener, not only does it give the reader an insight to Ghanian politics but it touches upon the big universal themes as well in the process, I will repeat myself, this is an important novel.
Akorfa grows up in a upper middle class household, has a good education and is a promising student. Her closest friend is her cousin Selasi, who is the exact opposite of her, yet despite separations they have a bond. There are quite a few nudges towards Ghanian politics but the emphasis is on these character’s friendship.
When Akorfa manages to study in the states, the books themes start going into gear and she encounters different forms of racism. Sometimes it is blatant, sometimes it is subtle (I personally was shocked to see that people believe that Africa is only dominated by jungle) but it affects her whole working life, Despite being known as land of the free, for Akorfa, living in The States is a hassle. Things take a sinister turn when a relative abuses Akorfa, which a theme which is expanded on in the Selasi narrative. One last thing which impressed me as well in this part was that one student is the daughter of a politician who uses national funds in order to pay for his daughters education which results in poor roads and buildings in that particular village.
Selasi’s story correlates with Akorfa’s until they leave school and Selasi works as a waitress, There a worker is sexually abused by a major politician and her narrative is dominated by her attempts to seek justice for this worker, As it happens, men in power will stick up for their, making Selasi’s mission a frustrating one.
When both characters meet again more secrets emerge but it also shows how their friendship is.
Generally when a book has so many themes, I am put off as I feel that they lose their meaning but here it works. Peace Adzo Medie not only goes into detail with the topics discussed but enlightens the reader in the process. Not to mention the readable style which helps cement these important issues even more.
Nightbloom is a novel which is an eye opener, not only does it give the reader an insight to Ghanian politics but it touches upon the big universal themes as well in the process, I will repeat myself, this is an important novel.
April 5, 2024
Longlisted for 2024 Women’s Prize for Fiction
I struggled a bit with this book. On one hand, I appreciated that Medie provided such a deep dive into Ghanaian culture and explored how women did or did not have opportunities to succeed. Similar to Elena Ferrante’s My Brilliant Friend, this book explores how class can drive a wedge between friendships and determine the opportunities that are available to women during this time and place. I enjoyed learning more about their time in school, and this book brilliantly raised important questions about familial trauma and sexual assault, particularly by people in positions of power within institutions, whether the family or the government. I also appreciated how this story was told in two discrete parts, one from Selasi’s perspective and the other from Akorfa’s.
On the other hand, the writing style didn’t work for me. I thought it was overly simplistic and the dialogue felt stilted and even pedantic at times. The hysterical reactions by some of the characters was irritating because it seemed like every single time someone opened their mouth it was to argue. I’m also didn’t particularly care for how the storyline surrounding sexual assault was ultimately handled. In some ways, it felt like their shared trauma brought Selasi and Akorfa together, and I feel like a far more interesting story would have been how they wrestled with their complex feelings about their friendship in the absence of that precipitating external event. For example, Sula by Toni Morrison explores similar ideas but does it in a more subtle and well-rounded way.
I think there is much to recommend this book. If you enjoyed any of the books I talked about above or Maame by Jessica George I think you’d also like this book.
I struggled a bit with this book. On one hand, I appreciated that Medie provided such a deep dive into Ghanaian culture and explored how women did or did not have opportunities to succeed. Similar to Elena Ferrante’s My Brilliant Friend, this book explores how class can drive a wedge between friendships and determine the opportunities that are available to women during this time and place. I enjoyed learning more about their time in school, and this book brilliantly raised important questions about familial trauma and sexual assault, particularly by people in positions of power within institutions, whether the family or the government. I also appreciated how this story was told in two discrete parts, one from Selasi’s perspective and the other from Akorfa’s.
On the other hand, the writing style didn’t work for me. I thought it was overly simplistic and the dialogue felt stilted and even pedantic at times. The hysterical reactions by some of the characters was irritating because it seemed like every single time someone opened their mouth it was to argue. I’m also didn’t particularly care for how the storyline surrounding sexual assault was ultimately handled. In some ways, it felt like their shared trauma brought Selasi and Akorfa together, and I feel like a far more interesting story would have been how they wrestled with their complex feelings about their friendship in the absence of that precipitating external event. For example, Sula by Toni Morrison explores similar ideas but does it in a more subtle and well-rounded way.
I think there is much to recommend this book. If you enjoyed any of the books I talked about above or Maame by Jessica George I think you’d also like this book.
Want to read
April 14, 2023When Selasi and Akorfa were young girls in Ghana, they were more than just cousins; they were inseparable. Selasi was exuberant and funny, Akorfa quiet and studious. They would do anything for each other, imploring their parents to let them be together, sharing their secrets and desires and private jokes.
Then Selasi begins to change, becoming hostile and quiet; her grades suffer; she builds a space around herself, shutting Akorfa out. Meanwhile, Akorfa is ac-cepted to an American university with the goal of becoming a doctor. Although hopeful that America will afford her opportunities not available to her in Ghana, she discovers the insidious ways that racism places obstacles in her path once in Pittsburgh. It takes a crisis to bring the friends back together, with Selasi’s secret revealed and Akorfa forced to reckon with her role in their estrangement.
A story of the importance of what "TRUE SISTERHOOD"" means
Medie reminds you there is only one true Judge and Juror and all can be forgiven, just not forgotten.
This book took awhile for me to finish, it was not one of my favorites. I do apologize tremendously. I just could not get excited for the characters or their lives.
However, I do love Peace Adzo Medie as a writer and will always read her books. ❤️
Thank you NetGalley\Peace Adzo Medie\Algonquin Books\ For this eARC in advance for my honest review. My opinions are of my own volition.
Pub Date: 12 June 2023
Then Selasi begins to change, becoming hostile and quiet; her grades suffer; she builds a space around herself, shutting Akorfa out. Meanwhile, Akorfa is ac-cepted to an American university with the goal of becoming a doctor. Although hopeful that America will afford her opportunities not available to her in Ghana, she discovers the insidious ways that racism places obstacles in her path once in Pittsburgh. It takes a crisis to bring the friends back together, with Selasi’s secret revealed and Akorfa forced to reckon with her role in their estrangement.
A story of the importance of what "TRUE SISTERHOOD"" means
Medie reminds you there is only one true Judge and Juror and all can be forgiven, just not forgotten.
This book took awhile for me to finish, it was not one of my favorites. I do apologize tremendously. I just could not get excited for the characters or their lives.
However, I do love Peace Adzo Medie as a writer and will always read her books. ❤️
Thank you NetGalley\Peace Adzo Medie\Algonquin Books\ For this eARC in advance for my honest review. My opinions are of my own volition.
Pub Date: 12 June 2023
June 15, 2023
Nightbloom centers around two cousins, Selasi and Akorfa who as young girls grew up so close they considered each other more than just cousins but best friends and sisters! Akorfa was always the quiet and studious one, while Selasi the outgoing and confident one. As time pass and they grow up, their personalities change and relationship sours and they began to live separate lives. After years of being estranged, their lives are forced back together as Selasi reveals long rooted secrets and Akorfa is forced to reckon with her own actions and secrets from her own past.
The book is broken up into three parts, with Akorfa's POV, Selasi's POV, and then both POVs at the end. At first I was a little thrown off with how the book was structured but after starting Selasi's section I think the way the author split their POVs really worked well.
As I was reading, I kept coming back to "how two people can have different versions of the same story." The stark contrast between how both Akorfa and Selasi remembered things were shocking. And had me ponder, does privilege and other people's influence shape the way we see things? Are we blinded by our own selfishness that we don't see what's right in front of us?
This book holds true to the unbreakable bonds of female friendship and the societal pressures to silence women. And how our own memories can shape our way of life and ones around us!
Thank you Algonquin books and the author for the gifted eArc copy!
The book is broken up into three parts, with Akorfa's POV, Selasi's POV, and then both POVs at the end. At first I was a little thrown off with how the book was structured but after starting Selasi's section I think the way the author split their POVs really worked well.
As I was reading, I kept coming back to "how two people can have different versions of the same story." The stark contrast between how both Akorfa and Selasi remembered things were shocking. And had me ponder, does privilege and other people's influence shape the way we see things? Are we blinded by our own selfishness that we don't see what's right in front of us?
This book holds true to the unbreakable bonds of female friendship and the societal pressures to silence women. And how our own memories can shape our way of life and ones around us!
Thank you Algonquin books and the author for the gifted eArc copy!
July 6, 2023
I had read and enjoyed Medie's first novel, His Only Wife. Nightbloom, however, blew me away.
The first half is compelling. I thought I was reading a novel about upper-class Ghanaians- fascinating, yet light reading. Then, Medie describes Aforka's experiences upon moving to the US, her attempts at navigating racism in America amidst conflicts with her controlling uncle. Medie manages to describe a rape scene in two sentences, yet somehow it still lands in a heartbreaking thud that carries throughout the rest of the novel.
The novel's second half is just incredible. I did not realize there would be a second narrator, but Medie goes on to write from the perspective of Selasi, Aforka's cousin with whom there was a falling out in the novel's first half. Seeing Selasi's side reminds us that everyone has a story, has reasons for their actions. Through Selasi, who remains in Ghana and becomes successful despite many hardships, we examine Ghanaian corruption and sexual assault.
This was one of those novels that was both a pleasure to read and important, the best kind.
The first half is compelling. I thought I was reading a novel about upper-class Ghanaians- fascinating, yet light reading. Then, Medie describes Aforka's experiences upon moving to the US, her attempts at navigating racism in America amidst conflicts with her controlling uncle. Medie manages to describe a rape scene in two sentences, yet somehow it still lands in a heartbreaking thud that carries throughout the rest of the novel.
The novel's second half is just incredible. I did not realize there would be a second narrator, but Medie goes on to write from the perspective of Selasi, Aforka's cousin with whom there was a falling out in the novel's first half. Seeing Selasi's side reminds us that everyone has a story, has reasons for their actions. Through Selasi, who remains in Ghana and becomes successful despite many hardships, we examine Ghanaian corruption and sexual assault.
This was one of those novels that was both a pleasure to read and important, the best kind.
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March 14, 2023Overall this book was good story, it would have been so much better if the POVs of Akorfa and Selasi had both told simultaneously. The first part is entirely Akorfa, second part Selasi and the final part which is very short is both Akorfa and Selasi.
As result of the above by the time I got to Selasi part I had to try and remember what Akorfa’s perspective was, and that prevented the story from flowing seamlessly. At times it felt like I needed to reference back to Akorfa’s account however that would mean searching through the previous part and that just wasn’t something I wanted to do.
As result of the above by the time I got to Selasi part I had to try and remember what Akorfa’s perspective was, and that prevented the story from flowing seamlessly. At times it felt like I needed to reference back to Akorfa’s account however that would mean searching through the previous part and that just wasn’t something I wanted to do.
November 8, 2025
It took me two months to finally find a balance in grad school and start reading again so that’s why this took forever to read. I’ve never been an audiobook person and don’t think I could read books exclusively on audio (love the physical copy) but it’s nice to have something to listen to on my way to class and field. This audiobook was well done - read by a Ghanaian woman who did a nice job on the voices. Though it was funny that Phillip who was raised in Togo spoke English with a French accent that sounded more like an American French accent than a Togolese one. It was nice being back in that part of the world through this book, I loved all the little references that would have meant nothing to me a few years ago. It was interesting having the perspectives of Akorfa and Selasi and seeing the differences in their lives and worldviews. I liked them both but maybe Selasi more (but could that have been since her perspective was most of the latter half of the book?). Of course the differences between their upbringings made me think of social work stuff, I can’t escape it! But I’m glad I didn’t give up on reading and having found a way to bring it back into my life.
June 10, 2024
Probably more of like a 3.8 ⭐️
I read this a lot quicker than I thought I would and I’m so glad because this deserved my attention and I know otherwise it would have taken me ages to get through.
I really enjoyed Akorfa’s part at the start it was well written and seemed honest. However then I read Selasi’s part and saw how clouded Akorfa’s pov was!! It was so interesting to see the holes in what Akorfa had lived compared to Selasi’s reality! And then we got to the present I really didn’t like Akorfa anymore… even less when she went back to Ghana and was so horrible to Selasi and still sided with her mother? Like I get why but at the same time like… crazy. Selasi’s part was good however her ordeal with the minister was way too long and dragged out it for very boring I won’t lie. The ending was so satisfying despite everything else I was so happy M*chael (🤢) got some sort of small punishment and I totally predicted that Akorfa would do what she did 🤭🤞. The last couple pages where she went to Selasi and they spoke on the porch… “anyway don’t be a strangerrr” nearly teared up it was so touching and I relate to their relationship so much it was beautiful.
I read this a lot quicker than I thought I would and I’m so glad because this deserved my attention and I know otherwise it would have taken me ages to get through.
I really enjoyed Akorfa’s part at the start it was well written and seemed honest. However then I read Selasi’s part and saw how clouded Akorfa’s pov was!! It was so interesting to see the holes in what Akorfa had lived compared to Selasi’s reality! And then we got to the present I really didn’t like Akorfa anymore… even less when she went back to Ghana and was so horrible to Selasi and still sided with her mother? Like I get why but at the same time like… crazy. Selasi’s part was good however her ordeal with the minister was way too long and dragged out it for very boring I won’t lie. The ending was so satisfying despite everything else I was so happy M*chael (🤢) got some sort of small punishment and I totally predicted that Akorfa would do what she did 🤭🤞. The last couple pages where she went to Selasi and they spoke on the porch… “anyway don’t be a strangerrr” nearly teared up it was so touching and I relate to their relationship so much it was beautiful.
April 18, 2024
While this book has an interesting premise, a family story, marked by sexual violence, seen through two different viewpoints, the pacing (slow and repetitive) was off, and the writing more YA than I expected. Also, only one of the narrators really casts doubt on the reliability of the other - it would be more interesting if both had differing perspectives and we weren't sure where the "truth" (whatever that is) lay. But one of our narrators is unreliable and less likeable, and the other does not seem unreliable at all, and so that somewhat undercuts the two narrators' framing.
Also, the 2nd half of the book (second narrator) which is set fully in Ghana is much richer and more vivid in its use of secondary characters than the first half, which is set largely in the US and feels flatter.
That said, the immersion in Ghana was interesting - as were the contrasts with the US (I liked that Medie didn't shy away from showing the different but troubling flaws in each culture). And it was a pretty fast read (although it did take me 10 days to finish - a sign that I wasn't dying to dive back in).
Also, the 2nd half of the book (second narrator) which is set fully in Ghana is much richer and more vivid in its use of secondary characters than the first half, which is set largely in the US and feels flatter.
That said, the immersion in Ghana was interesting - as were the contrasts with the US (I liked that Medie didn't shy away from showing the different but troubling flaws in each culture). And it was a pretty fast read (although it did take me 10 days to finish - a sign that I wasn't dying to dive back in).
February 26, 2023
This book evoked so many emotions in me. We watch the two best friends, Akorfa and Selasi, grow up together in the same household after Selasi’s mother dies and her father refuses to step up. The story os first told from Akorfa’s side and I will not lie, I started to really dislike Selasi until I read her side of the story and my heart just melted with empathy for both girls. This is a tale of miscommunication, harboured anger, forgiveness, and triumph. The exquisite way in which Peace Adzo intersects cultural identity, traditions, and the modern day-to-day existence of African women into this story leaves you turning page after page. I found myself immersed in life in Accra as the story unfolded. This was an amazing read! There were a few typos, but nothing too glaring. Thank you Net Galley for this advanced copy.
July 12, 2023
This book is set in Ghana and is about Selasi and Akorfa. They grow up together as not only best friends, but cousins. Their bond seems unbreakable, until they slowly start drifting away from each other. What will it take to bring them back together?
I really enjoyed this book! I was immediately hooked from the very beginning and couldn't put it down. I know it seemed to bother readers that the author didn't use alternating chapters, but I don't think it was necessary. I think the long POVs split into two parts worked very well with the story.
Make sure you pay attention to Akorfa's POV, which you will read first (40%). Selasi will go over the same events in her POV for the next 50% of the book. Then, you get to see from both POVs for the last 10% of the book.
Thank you to Algonquin Books and NetGalley for the e-arc.
I really enjoyed this book! I was immediately hooked from the very beginning and couldn't put it down. I know it seemed to bother readers that the author didn't use alternating chapters, but I don't think it was necessary. I think the long POVs split into two parts worked very well with the story.
Make sure you pay attention to Akorfa's POV, which you will read first (40%). Selasi will go over the same events in her POV for the next 50% of the book. Then, you get to see from both POVs for the last 10% of the book.
Thank you to Algonquin Books and NetGalley for the e-arc.
April 22, 2025
Wow the power of misunderstandings and miscommunication and the ability to drive a wedge between 2 people who dearly love each other and were inseparable. This book showcased the way adults can ruin children’s lives, whether it’s a parent or extended family.
I loved the exploration of the expectations of culture and how it could actually be a detriment to the well being of a person. I think in many ways, Selasi and Akorfa were failed by these expectations even though they both were successful women.
So many themes in this book! I highly recommend it.
I loved the exploration of the expectations of culture and how it could actually be a detriment to the well being of a person. I think in many ways, Selasi and Akorfa were failed by these expectations even though they both were successful women.
So many themes in this book! I highly recommend it.
September 25, 2023
This is the kind of book I love and really enjoy.
I had missed a good book and I knew Peace would not disappoint.
I love a story of things working out for people, especially who's odds looked doomed.
I had missed a good book and I knew Peace would not disappoint.
I love a story of things working out for people, especially who's odds looked doomed.
June 26, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. NIGHTBLOOM is a heartbreaking story of friendship set in present-day Ghana. Akorfa and Selasi arrecousins and best friends. Akorfa lives a life of privilege as the only child of well-to-do parents. Selasi’s childhood takes a tragic turn when she unexpectedly loses her mother.
On the surface, this sounds like a run of the mill friendship drama, but it is so much more. Peace Adzo Medie is an exquisite writer, and her decision to tell the exact same story twice from different viewpoints lends the story a uniqueness which bumps it handily to a five star read in my book. It’s been a while since I encountered a book I didn’t want to stop reading. This is truly a gem, and I am surprised this didn’t make the shortlist for the 2024 Women’s Prize, as this is definitely among my favourite reads of 2025.
On the surface, this sounds like a run of the mill friendship drama, but it is so much more. Peace Adzo Medie is an exquisite writer, and her decision to tell the exact same story twice from different viewpoints lends the story a uniqueness which bumps it handily to a five star read in my book. It’s been a while since I encountered a book I didn’t want to stop reading. This is truly a gem, and I am surprised this didn’t make the shortlist for the 2024 Women’s Prize, as this is definitely among my favourite reads of 2025.
July 5, 2023
I read and loved His Only Wife two years ago and I absolutely loved it. Mainly because of Peace amazing ability to craft a character that you deeply understand and empathize with while exploring the cultural norms that make the lives of our characters so miserable. She has done it again with Nightbloom.
Here we follow Akorfa and Selasi who grew up together and were very close as children until one day, they seem to no longer understand each other and they grew apart. with the passing of Selasi's mother, her father leaves her with her grandmother who is struggling to raise the other children in the family home. So when Selasi hears that she would live with Akorfa and her wealthy family, she believes that her luck might change. But has we read from Akorfa's perspective, we see Selasi become withdrawn and hostile, keeping everyone outside of her carefully constructed walls.
As time passed, the distance between Selasi and Akorfa widen, as Akorfa travels to the United States to study to be a Doctor, while Selasi disappears. We watch Akorfa as she lives with her aunt, she tries to settle into university, gain and lose friends be a victim of sexual abuse and navigate racial tensions. We watch her lose her dream, take on a new one and build a family. Then an unfortunate thing happens and she returns to Ghana.
This is when we meet Selasi again, this time Selasi is a grown woman, who has her who restaurant, a cooking show and is happily married with children. However, beneath her accomplishments, Selasi still carries the scars of her troubled past. Through her perspective, we gain some insight into the reasons behind her withdrawal and self-isolation. We watch her navigate the complexities of politics and social ostracization.
When the two girls meet again as women, the truth of their shared past is unveiled, leaving behind feelings of regret, the need for reconciliation, and a desire for revenge. This raw and honest book skilfully unfolds in two parts, showcasing how differing perspectives can shape reactions to life's challenges. Nightbloom is a riveting tale that explores family, friendship, trauma, resilience, and belonging.
I really enjoyed this book and to be honest, i will be reading anything written by Peace.
Here we follow Akorfa and Selasi who grew up together and were very close as children until one day, they seem to no longer understand each other and they grew apart. with the passing of Selasi's mother, her father leaves her with her grandmother who is struggling to raise the other children in the family home. So when Selasi hears that she would live with Akorfa and her wealthy family, she believes that her luck might change. But has we read from Akorfa's perspective, we see Selasi become withdrawn and hostile, keeping everyone outside of her carefully constructed walls.
As time passed, the distance between Selasi and Akorfa widen, as Akorfa travels to the United States to study to be a Doctor, while Selasi disappears. We watch Akorfa as she lives with her aunt, she tries to settle into university, gain and lose friends be a victim of sexual abuse and navigate racial tensions. We watch her lose her dream, take on a new one and build a family. Then an unfortunate thing happens and she returns to Ghana.
This is when we meet Selasi again, this time Selasi is a grown woman, who has her who restaurant, a cooking show and is happily married with children. However, beneath her accomplishments, Selasi still carries the scars of her troubled past. Through her perspective, we gain some insight into the reasons behind her withdrawal and self-isolation. We watch her navigate the complexities of politics and social ostracization.
When the two girls meet again as women, the truth of their shared past is unveiled, leaving behind feelings of regret, the need for reconciliation, and a desire for revenge. This raw and honest book skilfully unfolds in two parts, showcasing how differing perspectives can shape reactions to life's challenges. Nightbloom is a riveting tale that explores family, friendship, trauma, resilience, and belonging.
I really enjoyed this book and to be honest, i will be reading anything written by Peace.
August 19, 2024
I almost DNF'd this book. And I very likely will not pick up another title by this author, having read one other by her. She seems to specialize in women in conflict and their angst as I judge her two books.
The first section features Akorfa and her perspective. The level of pettiness she and mother experience got to be tiresome and did not move the story. This was when I was strongly contemplating a DNF. As portrayed, they are victims and blameless. Their suffering seemed to be pointless. The described "cattiness" was trifling--juvenile. As a reader, I felt like I was dragged down and dragged through it...and needlessly so.
I pushed beyond my usual 100-page limit for DNFs though I don't recall why. In any case, the next section switched perspectives to Selasi's. She is a more compelling and forgivable character. She is Akorfa's cousin and a sister-friend--and the sun to Akorfa's moon when they were children.
Here we suddenly get a Rashomon effect. And the shift is intriguing: we see in a broader context all the BS that Akorfa bellyached about but now it's more balanced and takes on new meaning and as often, set "straight."
It would have been interesting if the order was reversed too, I thought. Would I have become more sympathetic towards one over the other? Probably yes. And this was, likely and hopefully, the design of the author.
In "real life," I would say that there are three sides to every story. They are Person A's, Person B's, and then the truth.
My main complaint is that pettiness and cattiness...though we do see how it's perpetuated as well as self-fulfilling. It's a ying yan of dysfunction...and a human fallibility.
The first section features Akorfa and her perspective. The level of pettiness she and mother experience got to be tiresome and did not move the story. This was when I was strongly contemplating a DNF. As portrayed, they are victims and blameless. Their suffering seemed to be pointless. The described "cattiness" was trifling--juvenile. As a reader, I felt like I was dragged down and dragged through it...and needlessly so.
I pushed beyond my usual 100-page limit for DNFs though I don't recall why. In any case, the next section switched perspectives to Selasi's. She is a more compelling and forgivable character. She is Akorfa's cousin and a sister-friend--and the sun to Akorfa's moon when they were children.
Here we suddenly get a Rashomon effect. And the shift is intriguing: we see in a broader context all the BS that Akorfa bellyached about but now it's more balanced and takes on new meaning and as often, set "straight."
It would have been interesting if the order was reversed too, I thought. Would I have become more sympathetic towards one over the other? Probably yes. And this was, likely and hopefully, the design of the author.
In "real life," I would say that there are three sides to every story. They are Person A's, Person B's, and then the truth.
My main complaint is that pettiness and cattiness...though we do see how it's perpetuated as well as self-fulfilling. It's a ying yan of dysfunction...and a human fallibility.
February 23, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Algonquin Books for an advanced electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Selasi and Akorfa are cousins, but their bond is stronger: they are inseparable. As they begin to grow and change, their class status and family life becomes clearer, and forces begin to drive them apart. Akorfa leaves to attend university in the USA, with Selasi remaining in Ghana. We see them become adults and face what they overlooked in their youth, showing that there really are two sides to every story.
I requested this because I enjoyed the author's debut novel, "His Only Wife," and I also saw this book recommended for people who enjoyed "The Girl With the Louding Voice," and that was enough to convince me. Even when it feels like there isn't a ton of plot driving the novel, you get into the depths of their emotions. The characters have issues but they aren't whiny or annoying. As the reader, you also get to see both sides of the story, with both of the girls adding their viewpoints. Any time I put the book down, I found myself wanting to check in with Selasi and Akorfa and make sure they were okay. It drew me in! The ending was satisfying, and I'll be thinking about this one for a while.
CW: sexual assault, rape, gaslighting, death (mentioned not described), abortion
Selasi and Akorfa are cousins, but their bond is stronger: they are inseparable. As they begin to grow and change, their class status and family life becomes clearer, and forces begin to drive them apart. Akorfa leaves to attend university in the USA, with Selasi remaining in Ghana. We see them become adults and face what they overlooked in their youth, showing that there really are two sides to every story.
I requested this because I enjoyed the author's debut novel, "His Only Wife," and I also saw this book recommended for people who enjoyed "The Girl With the Louding Voice," and that was enough to convince me. Even when it feels like there isn't a ton of plot driving the novel, you get into the depths of their emotions. The characters have issues but they aren't whiny or annoying. As the reader, you also get to see both sides of the story, with both of the girls adding their viewpoints. Any time I put the book down, I found myself wanting to check in with Selasi and Akorfa and make sure they were okay. It drew me in! The ending was satisfying, and I'll be thinking about this one for a while.
CW: sexual assault, rape, gaslighting, death (mentioned not described), abortion
June 4, 2023
I received an ARC of this at a conference and could hardly put it down as I was reading!
Akorfa and Selasi are cousins growing up in Ghana, starting as close friends until their different circumstances pull them in different directions. (And Akorfa’s attitude has a little something to do with it, too… iykyk)
This novel shares some common themes with His Only Wife, like strained marriages, enmity between in-laws, and complicated family dynamics. Personally, I think Nightbloom is the stronger novel because it emotionally goes deeper and grapples more with the conflicts of the characters. More than that, it has what I thought was missing from His Only Wife: the perspective of the other woman involved.
Nightbloom is split into different sections, starting with Akorfa��s point of view, then Selasi’s. Selasi’s section is definitely the more engaging of the two, but both are compelling narratives (though Akorfa may be a bit more flawed—I’ll leave that judgment up to you).
On a personal note, the sections where Akorfa and Selasi try to repair their relationship really hit home for me, and if you’ve ever experienced a rift in a relationship like theirs (even if under very different circumstances), it will likely hit home for you, too. Highly recommend this one!
Akorfa and Selasi are cousins growing up in Ghana, starting as close friends until their different circumstances pull them in different directions. (And Akorfa’s attitude has a little something to do with it, too… iykyk)
This novel shares some common themes with His Only Wife, like strained marriages, enmity between in-laws, and complicated family dynamics. Personally, I think Nightbloom is the stronger novel because it emotionally goes deeper and grapples more with the conflicts of the characters. More than that, it has what I thought was missing from His Only Wife: the perspective of the other woman involved.
Nightbloom is split into different sections, starting with Akorfa��s point of view, then Selasi’s. Selasi’s section is definitely the more engaging of the two, but both are compelling narratives (though Akorfa may be a bit more flawed—I’ll leave that judgment up to you).
On a personal note, the sections where Akorfa and Selasi try to repair their relationship really hit home for me, and if you’ve ever experienced a rift in a relationship like theirs (even if under very different circumstances), it will likely hit home for you, too. Highly recommend this one!
May 23, 2024
This book did a good job of touching on trauma in African culture and how a lot of our childhood trauma starts manifesting itself as adults. It did feel like the story was dragging and I only finished it to see how it would end. I liked how the author showed both of the main characters perspectives during different phases of their lives.
June 22, 2023
Published: 06/13/23
Thank you Netgalley and Algonquin Books for accepting my request to read and review Nightbloom.
Nightbloom was sad and brought out a dark side in me. The story is told by three separate women, individually; and that is what kept me from rounding up and possibly going five stars. There is a five star story here, but not written in this manner. When choosing a book the cover grabs my eyes and based on what I feel I may read the synopsis, may shake my head and leave it, and on too many occasions add it to my basket (TBR). I like to read with few preconceived notions. I've been known to ask myself hmm what were you thinking this day. I am a mood picker and reader.
I refrained from rereading the synopsis during part one, and it was a battle. I was sickened by the characters definition of friend and the responsibility of family brow beaten into girls. I had to put the book aside. I knew Ghana and two girls growing up friends would be enough for me to pick this up. Friends and family appear to be the theme throughout. But, maybe not. Maybe the author wants to delve deeper. I was lost in my thoughts and really in my own head space hurting for a little girl. Then part two appears -- I audibly gasped and thought "are you kidding me." (By the way, there are three parts and an epilogue.) Emotionally I was a wreck and mad on top of it. While this is fiction, the customs are real. I give props to the author for writing an emotionally connective story. Part two is the little girl's perspective of life where part one was her friend's and her friend's family. Part three: Part three is part three, and best left for you should you choose to read this book. It feels like spoiling. The epilogue ties the story up.
Customs, cultures and times gave us the adage if you are a friend, I would hate to see an enemy. Nightbloom showcases classes of people. The hierarchy of I have both parents, you have one; I'm a man you are a girl. Yes, you have money and I should be grateful for your stained clothing and broken toys. And, all this leads to respect. Like friend and family, Nightbloom is full of people screaming and demanding respect from those considerably less than their conceived equal. In a jungle setting, a mother will eat her own, abandon the runt, and Nightbloom shows Mother's will keep their young, abuse them, let them be abused all in the name of respect.
I would recommend. I also believe there is a learning curve -- tradition culturally vs animal cruelty. It's his and hers in the U.S. under the guise of Ours. There are steps and one of our own, and statistically there is little self-respect. Like in Ghana, blacks in the U.S. scream respect and whites -- possibly part 3? I gave you (feel in the blank).
Thank you Netgalley and Algonquin Books for accepting my request to read and review Nightbloom.
Nightbloom was sad and brought out a dark side in me. The story is told by three separate women, individually; and that is what kept me from rounding up and possibly going five stars. There is a five star story here, but not written in this manner. When choosing a book the cover grabs my eyes and based on what I feel I may read the synopsis, may shake my head and leave it, and on too many occasions add it to my basket (TBR). I like to read with few preconceived notions. I've been known to ask myself hmm what were you thinking this day. I am a mood picker and reader.
I refrained from rereading the synopsis during part one, and it was a battle. I was sickened by the characters definition of friend and the responsibility of family brow beaten into girls. I had to put the book aside. I knew Ghana and two girls growing up friends would be enough for me to pick this up. Friends and family appear to be the theme throughout. But, maybe not. Maybe the author wants to delve deeper. I was lost in my thoughts and really in my own head space hurting for a little girl. Then part two appears -- I audibly gasped and thought "are you kidding me." (By the way, there are three parts and an epilogue.) Emotionally I was a wreck and mad on top of it. While this is fiction, the customs are real. I give props to the author for writing an emotionally connective story. Part two is the little girl's perspective of life where part one was her friend's and her friend's family. Part three: Part three is part three, and best left for you should you choose to read this book. It feels like spoiling. The epilogue ties the story up.
Customs, cultures and times gave us the adage if you are a friend, I would hate to see an enemy. Nightbloom showcases classes of people. The hierarchy of I have both parents, you have one; I'm a man you are a girl. Yes, you have money and I should be grateful for your stained clothing and broken toys. And, all this leads to respect. Like friend and family, Nightbloom is full of people screaming and demanding respect from those considerably less than their conceived equal. In a jungle setting, a mother will eat her own, abandon the runt, and Nightbloom shows Mother's will keep their young, abuse them, let them be abused all in the name of respect.
I would recommend. I also believe there is a learning curve -- tradition culturally vs animal cruelty. It's his and hers in the U.S. under the guise of Ours. There are steps and one of our own, and statistically there is little self-respect. Like in Ghana, blacks in the U.S. scream respect and whites -- possibly part 3? I gave you (feel in the blank).
March 15, 2024
I had never heard of this before it being included in the Women's Prize for Fiction longlist. I didn’t think I was going to love this, but I was intrigued enough to get the ebook. It was also a good deal, so I thought "well let's start the WP reading here." In the end, I was addicted to this story. I loved the writing, I was compelled by the story. I kept on telling myself ONE MORE CHAPTER.
This book exemplified everything I love about a multiple POV story and about life. About why it is so important to hear both sides of a story to grasp a picture that approximates reality. I enjoyed reading from both Akorfa and Selasi, and the whole time I was in Part 1 I kept on thinking "oh i am so looking forward to Part 2, to get the other side of this". And I was so not disappointed.
This book was brilliantly structured because if we had started with the cousin in part 2, the reading experience would have made no sense. So the brilliant structure, the compelling characters and story, the writing and the pacing of this book, all created a perfect cocktail to keep me reading without ever wanting to stop.
I Loved this book!
This book exemplified everything I love about a multiple POV story and about life. About why it is so important to hear both sides of a story to grasp a picture that approximates reality. I enjoyed reading from both Akorfa and Selasi, and the whole time I was in Part 1 I kept on thinking "oh i am so looking forward to Part 2, to get the other side of this". And I was so not disappointed.
This book was brilliantly structured because if we had started with the cousin in part 2, the reading experience would have made no sense. So the brilliant structure, the compelling characters and story, the writing and the pacing of this book, all created a perfect cocktail to keep me reading without ever wanting to stop.
I Loved this book!
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