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Critical But, Stable
A thrilling story of wealth, power and the true cost of ‘having it all’. Because sometimes the price of the perfect life…is death.
In cosmopolitan Johannesburg, three high-flying couples form the core of the elite Khula Society: part investment group, part social club, with meetings where the champagne flows, the dresses are designer and the one-upmanship is off the scale. Noma, Moshidi, Lerato and their husbands are living the dream—or so it appears from the outside.
In reality, the cut and thrust of ‘keeping up with the Khulas’ is taking its toll on all three couples. Behind the facade of their ocean-front mansions, Italian supercars and lavishly catered receptions lies a tangle of explosive secrets—and deadly consequences. But as long as every member toes the line, plays the role they’re here to play, the dark truth remains crushed beneath the heels of so many Louboutins…
That is until, in her bid to have it all and more, one of these rich and powerful women oversteps the mark—with someone else’s man. The group soon comes to learn that you can’t have it all without paying the ultimate price…
In cosmopolitan Johannesburg, three high-flying couples form the core of the elite Khula Society: part investment group, part social club, with meetings where the champagne flows, the dresses are designer and the one-upmanship is off the scale. Noma, Moshidi, Lerato and their husbands are living the dream—or so it appears from the outside.
In reality, the cut and thrust of ‘keeping up with the Khulas’ is taking its toll on all three couples. Behind the facade of their ocean-front mansions, Italian supercars and lavishly catered receptions lies a tangle of explosive secrets—and deadly consequences. But as long as every member toes the line, plays the role they’re here to play, the dark truth remains crushed beneath the heels of so many Louboutins…
That is until, in her bid to have it all and more, one of these rich and powerful women oversteps the mark—with someone else’s man. The group soon comes to learn that you can’t have it all without paying the ultimate price…
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First published November 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
February 24, 2023
Out of @makholwamoabelo's 5 novels, Critical But, Stable is my best by far. A hilarious, witty but, reflective slice of life of four couples battling to have one up over each other. From their houses to cars to holiday homes to catered for events with seriously dire consequences. Ange delivered the opulence while interrogating the social chains that binds all those whose aim was to Keep Up With The Khumalos. The toxicities in their relationships and the sacrifices each couple makes to maintain the status quo.
The houses, the clothes, the food, the drinks, holidays and cars all come at a hefty price.
More than the smokescreen and mirrors of these glitzy lifestyles, Angela shines a light on contemporary issues and challenges by the black Nouveau Riche. The "Hilton Moms" syndicates. The Bryanston/Parktown Club lunchers. The shenanigans of the Tenderpreneurs and the "Came With Money" partners.
I loved Critical But, Stable for centering the 40 year old black woman. Her career challenges, her struggle to balance work and family, her need to be seen as more than a reproductive vessel and her need to be loved and sexed right. Fantastic sex doesn't end at 39.
Ange, the box pusher she is, stretches the narrative to position the black wife as a person battling moral ambiguity, less instructive as to "How to be" 1. A good wife 2. A good mother 3. Please your husband 4. Raise good children. In Critical But, Stable the burden is not placed on the woman to create and maintain "The Stepford Wife" trope. Yes, we do bake cookies and dress up. We support our partners and children but, we still maintain our autonomy as individuals with our own needs and wants and expectations.
Critical But, Stable is more than Women's Fiction previously known as Chick Lit. Do not be fooled by the candyfloss cover and male wedding band. This is Women's Literature written by a woman centering women. The women are sassy and feisty and are not afraid to use their femininity to get ahead.
Highly recommended December read. Make a cocktail, wear a huge sunhat, put sunscreen and be one with nature. This year has been topsy turvy and you deserve a LONG break.
The houses, the clothes, the food, the drinks, holidays and cars all come at a hefty price.
More than the smokescreen and mirrors of these glitzy lifestyles, Angela shines a light on contemporary issues and challenges by the black Nouveau Riche. The "Hilton Moms" syndicates. The Bryanston/Parktown Club lunchers. The shenanigans of the Tenderpreneurs and the "Came With Money" partners.
I loved Critical But, Stable for centering the 40 year old black woman. Her career challenges, her struggle to balance work and family, her need to be seen as more than a reproductive vessel and her need to be loved and sexed right. Fantastic sex doesn't end at 39.
Ange, the box pusher she is, stretches the narrative to position the black wife as a person battling moral ambiguity, less instructive as to "How to be" 1. A good wife 2. A good mother 3. Please your husband 4. Raise good children. In Critical But, Stable the burden is not placed on the woman to create and maintain "The Stepford Wife" trope. Yes, we do bake cookies and dress up. We support our partners and children but, we still maintain our autonomy as individuals with our own needs and wants and expectations.
Critical But, Stable is more than Women's Fiction previously known as Chick Lit. Do not be fooled by the candyfloss cover and male wedding band. This is Women's Literature written by a woman centering women. The women are sassy and feisty and are not afraid to use their femininity to get ahead.
Highly recommended December read. Make a cocktail, wear a huge sunhat, put sunscreen and be one with nature. This year has been topsy turvy and you deserve a LONG break.
February 1, 2021
Since the release of 'Critical But Stable' Angela Makholwa stands accused of depriving readers of their well deserved sleep. I hereby add my name to the complaint 's list. The novel is captivating, hilarious , entertaining, intriguing, fast paced, unputdownable, and thought provoking.
The book paints a picture of a South Africa that remains unequal in post democracy. The new players in the game being the elite Black middle class. The materialism and opulence of the latter is juxtaposed with the realities of characters like Jabu the security guard, Tshidi the domestic worker, Nthabiseng, and rural North West.
Angela serves us, comedy, sex, crime, infidelity, religion, African traditional practice, parenting, friendship, business, and sexuality, through the lives of four families and their rodomontade . She demonstrates how all that glitters is not gold, and how the longer the marriage the bigger the problems.
The book paints a picture of a South Africa that remains unequal in post democracy. The new players in the game being the elite Black middle class. The materialism and opulence of the latter is juxtaposed with the realities of characters like Jabu the security guard, Tshidi the domestic worker, Nthabiseng, and rural North West.
Angela serves us, comedy, sex, crime, infidelity, religion, African traditional practice, parenting, friendship, business, and sexuality, through the lives of four families and their rodomontade . She demonstrates how all that glitters is not gold, and how the longer the marriage the bigger the problems.
December 8, 2020
The drama with the Khula Social Club. The gossiping, the keeping with the Jones ... tjoo tjoo tjoo. Read this in one sitting . I loved the Manamelas
March 6, 2021
Bored but entertained.
Bored in the sense that I wasn't blown away but entertained nevertheless.
We follow the lives of the Jiya's, Manamela's and the Msibi's. The book opens up with a hint that a death has occurred..but which female has died?
The book reads as fast as any gossip blog would. You're glued to the pages because it's juicy at a sub par level but you want to stick around and see what happens next.
The storylines aren't that strong, you're basically coming in to see how the rich in SA live and the trials and tribulations that come with such lives. Having money doesn't make you immune to life's jokes nor does it absolve you of your sins.
I found Paul and Tom to be included in the story just to add the gay aesthetic without any real storyline. Non existent actually.
Also, why are the Zimbabweans in the story the bad guys/could be bad guys? Are we highlighting the stereotypes and hypocrisy of SA or feeding it?
The women in this book are power houses. Everyone is pulling their weight.
My favorite character was Lerato - tragic. I loved her new found "adventure" after finding out her husbands recent revelation was the reason for her 1 year of unsolicited "celibacy".
The Duke learned that every dog has its day. Mzwandile is such a hypocrite and Solomzi is lucky Moshidi is so forgiving.
Paul and Tom..I can't even add a little note because they were unnecessary.
In conclusion guys, grab the book if you want a marriage type drama - fast read - entertainment.
*The 30th Candle is still my fav of Angela Makholwa's books.
*I was #gifted this book by @Panmacmillansa
Bored in the sense that I wasn't blown away but entertained nevertheless.
We follow the lives of the Jiya's, Manamela's and the Msibi's. The book opens up with a hint that a death has occurred..but which female has died?
The book reads as fast as any gossip blog would. You're glued to the pages because it's juicy at a sub par level but you want to stick around and see what happens next.
The storylines aren't that strong, you're basically coming in to see how the rich in SA live and the trials and tribulations that come with such lives. Having money doesn't make you immune to life's jokes nor does it absolve you of your sins.
I found Paul and Tom to be included in the story just to add the gay aesthetic without any real storyline. Non existent actually.
Also, why are the Zimbabweans in the story the bad guys/could be bad guys? Are we highlighting the stereotypes and hypocrisy of SA or feeding it?
The women in this book are power houses. Everyone is pulling their weight.
My favorite character was Lerato - tragic. I loved her new found "adventure" after finding out her husbands recent revelation was the reason for her 1 year of unsolicited "celibacy".
The Duke learned that every dog has its day. Mzwandile is such a hypocrite and Solomzi is lucky Moshidi is so forgiving.
Paul and Tom..I can't even add a little note because they were unnecessary.
In conclusion guys, grab the book if you want a marriage type drama - fast read - entertainment.
*The 30th Candle is still my fav of Angela Makholwa's books.
*I was #gifted this book by @Panmacmillansa
January 20, 2021
If anyone sees Angela, please tell her she owes me 2 nights' of sleep!😑 I haven't been able to focus on much else since I started this juicy, juicy, juuuicy book.
First up, let me just say I'm manifesting friends like Tom and Paul😌🕯️I also want to atttend a Gatsby-inspired 8-piece jazz band soiree at Shangri La😍😍😍
From the first page, titled The Body, I was entranced by this story. The subjects got more intricate and their lives more intriguing with each page. The book details the goings-on in the lives of 3 well-off Joburg couples; insight that reveals that even with money, the trivialities and challenges of life are the same. Marital ennui, sexual incompatability, discontentment, patriachal double-standards, the never-ending desire for more...there is only so much that wealth can veil; thereafter, the rain falls on the rich and poor alike.
This is my third Angela Makholwa book and all have been an absolute joy to read. Her writing is engaging and flows effortlessly. I guzzled the book in less than 48 hours, partly due to my burning itch to know what happens next and partly due to the ease of Angela's prose.
A wonderfully entertaining and thrilling read. 4🌟🌟🌟🌟 from me.
First up, let me just say I'm manifesting friends like Tom and Paul😌🕯️I also want to atttend a Gatsby-inspired 8-piece jazz band soiree at Shangri La😍😍😍
From the first page, titled The Body, I was entranced by this story. The subjects got more intricate and their lives more intriguing with each page. The book details the goings-on in the lives of 3 well-off Joburg couples; insight that reveals that even with money, the trivialities and challenges of life are the same. Marital ennui, sexual incompatability, discontentment, patriachal double-standards, the never-ending desire for more...there is only so much that wealth can veil; thereafter, the rain falls on the rich and poor alike.
This is my third Angela Makholwa book and all have been an absolute joy to read. Her writing is engaging and flows effortlessly. I guzzled the book in less than 48 hours, partly due to my burning itch to know what happens next and partly due to the ease of Angela's prose.
A wonderfully entertaining and thrilling read. 4🌟🌟🌟🌟 from me.
September 18, 2021
Unpopular option alert 🚨
I hate giving negative reviews however, I asked myself, “Why are you still reading this book?” so many times, I feel like I’d be dishonest not to.
My issues:
The omniscient POV makes this book feel impersonal and distant, not because this POV is inherently so but because of the choices the author made. I often felt that as a reader I was supposed to be impressed by the author’s world building and descriptions of opulence. But without the character building and dialogue to match, this book felt like it forever kept me at arms length from the characters and the actual story. The author failed to humanize any of the characters besides the one that ends up dying.
Some of the characters felt like they were there to fill a certain quota of representation. But because they were there only for their sexual orientation and were not explored in any manner beyond that (motivations, fears or misbeliefs),it felt like a cheap ploy. Honesty, if slapping on a few one dimensional lgbt characters is what representation is about, it can miss me.
The thin dialogue and quick resolution of conflict between the characters blunts the impact, and fails to build up any sense of tension in the story. Substance was sacrificed for “wit” even when serious topics such as domestic violence and xenophobia were explored.
Though I feel like the story has the bones to make a good story, it failed to deliver on the promise of a thriller with any plot twist. The fool that I am believed I was reading a domestic murder mystery until the well past the midpoint and I kept reading.
The overall result is a sense of general dissatisfaction and a feeling of being robbed of the money and time I invested in this book.
I hate giving negative reviews however, I asked myself, “Why are you still reading this book?” so many times, I feel like I’d be dishonest not to.
My issues:
The omniscient POV makes this book feel impersonal and distant, not because this POV is inherently so but because of the choices the author made. I often felt that as a reader I was supposed to be impressed by the author’s world building and descriptions of opulence. But without the character building and dialogue to match, this book felt like it forever kept me at arms length from the characters and the actual story. The author failed to humanize any of the characters besides the one that ends up dying.
Some of the characters felt like they were there to fill a certain quota of representation. But because they were there only for their sexual orientation and were not explored in any manner beyond that (motivations, fears or misbeliefs),it felt like a cheap ploy. Honesty, if slapping on a few one dimensional lgbt characters is what representation is about, it can miss me.
The thin dialogue and quick resolution of conflict between the characters blunts the impact, and fails to build up any sense of tension in the story. Substance was sacrificed for “wit” even when serious topics such as domestic violence and xenophobia were explored.
Though I feel like the story has the bones to make a good story, it failed to deliver on the promise of a thriller with any plot twist. The fool that I am believed I was reading a domestic murder mystery until the well past the midpoint and I kept reading.
The overall result is a sense of general dissatisfaction and a feeling of being robbed of the money and time I invested in this book.
December 14, 2022
Critical But Stable is my first book by Angela Makholwa. The story is set in Johannesburg, South Africa (a setting that I am not too familiar with but excited to read about) and follows the lives of three married couples that are members of a same social/wealth club.
The book centers on the couples' debt, domestic abuse, infidelity, religious beliefs, cultural norms, and murder mystery, and their keeping up appearances to show everything is fine and glitzy. It is an entertaining read and I enjoy the author's sense of humor in some parts of the book. That said, the couples' stories and the heavy issues seem to be presented in a disjointed and somewhat thin way, not enough for me to get invested and fully captivated.
Many thanks for the e-copy I received from a Goodreads giveaway. Publication date: November 2022.
The book centers on the couples' debt, domestic abuse, infidelity, religious beliefs, cultural norms, and murder mystery, and their keeping up appearances to show everything is fine and glitzy. It is an entertaining read and I enjoy the author's sense of humor in some parts of the book. That said, the couples' stories and the heavy issues seem to be presented in a disjointed and somewhat thin way, not enough for me to get invested and fully captivated.
Many thanks for the e-copy I received from a Goodreads giveaway. Publication date: November 2022.
December 1, 2020
All is picture perfect with the social club "a glamourized stokvel" It's all about keeping up with the joneses but a lot of lies and secrets are what dwells underneath. This story follows the lives of 3 couples- Noma and the Duke; Moshidu and Soli; Lerato and Mzwandile. It's like watching a real-life show; unputdownable and a great page-turner with so much drama that's unpredictable and keeps you on your toes. Angela has a way with words that keeps you captivated.
What stood out for me are the sacrifices women make in these marriages and how toxic their men are shem🤦🏾♀️(Mzwandile and his sexuality issues with hiding behind religion🤷🏾♀️; Solomzi- the power-hungry, money-loving one who could trade his wife to cancel a debt🤯; The duke the misogynist). Other issues addressed include issues of class(net worth), family dynamics, abuse, affairs, losses, xenophobia, and cultural beliefs.
A fab read, got my copy from Bargain Books.
What stood out for me are the sacrifices women make in these marriages and how toxic their men are shem🤦🏾♀️(Mzwandile and his sexuality issues with hiding behind religion🤷🏾♀️; Solomzi- the power-hungry, money-loving one who could trade his wife to cancel a debt🤯; The duke the misogynist). Other issues addressed include issues of class(net worth), family dynamics, abuse, affairs, losses, xenophobia, and cultural beliefs.
A fab read, got my copy from Bargain Books.
February 16, 2021
Angela came through with all her wittyness for the girlies here. Not my favourite novel from her, but one to enjoy ! Angela has a way of writing that sweeps you up and emerses you in the characters lives
She surely writes for the women and thats whats most enjoyable about this book. The life of the rich trying to "Keep up with the Khumalo's" is always a fascinating tale. She had me enjoy all the female characters with their admirable traits. Fun read !
She surely writes for the women and thats whats most enjoyable about this book. The life of the rich trying to "Keep up with the Khumalo's" is always a fascinating tale. She had me enjoy all the female characters with their admirable traits. Fun read !
February 1, 2021
Not what I expected
It was a good read, however I felt a lot of things were hanging. It feel unfinished. Maybe a book 2 is in sight. However the book kept revealing a lot of things. It showed the selfishness of the men and the way women should always keep things together. Most of the characters could not be their true self and lived the facade.
It was a good read, however I felt a lot of things were hanging. It feel unfinished. Maybe a book 2 is in sight. However the book kept revealing a lot of things. It showed the selfishness of the men and the way women should always keep things together. Most of the characters could not be their true self and lived the facade.
December 16, 2020
This book deserves to be a Netflix series or even a movie. Was throughly entertained.
November 25, 2025
3 ✨ I was hoping for a higher level of suspense and intensity based on the book description, but the story didn't live up to my hopes 🤭. It was good enough to finish, but mostly forgettable. The standout element was one particular couple whose dynamic struck a chord, and I might bring them up in a conversation or two 💭!
September 5, 2021
A funny, easy weekend sort of read that made me ask myself why this was the first of Angela Makholwa's books I've read. Definitely a book I put in the "fluff" category and perhaps closer to 3,5stars than four mainly because the layout of the text was a little confusing especially when switching between characters but overall it was a book that had me entertained and at times, laughing out loud. I can definitely see myself being a fan of this author and it also felt so refreshing to read something with this local flavour.
January 29, 2021
The book started off a little sluggish but easily picked up some speed. Angela is witty in her storytelling and I loved how the secrets came to light, some were absolutely shocking. This was a good read
February 1, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters are good but flawed which makes them feel real. I love it because it's a South African story and it showcases issues that I can relate to. Would definitely recommend this book
January 12, 2021
Sheer entertainment, written in the exuberant style that is becoming Makholwa’s trademark. There’s something so spirited about her writing, it just sweeps you along as you’re caught up in her characters’ lives.
Fictional or real, the rich really are different, and their lives are fascinating, but wealth cannot always cushion the three affluent couples in these pages. Their material problems may amuse us, but the pain of loss and betrayal is universal.
Highly enjoyable.
Fictional or real, the rich really are different, and their lives are fascinating, but wealth cannot always cushion the three affluent couples in these pages. Their material problems may amuse us, but the pain of loss and betrayal is universal.
Highly enjoyable.
December 16, 2020
From the very first page, I was intrigued and hooked. But I wasn’t expecting any less from Angela. She is an incredible story teller. I am not surprised that her books won international awards.
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Intrigue...intrigue...intrigue...twist and turns. You just don’t know what will happen with these characters. This is what gets me hooked on Angela’s books. Her stories are such a whirlwind journey and so enjoyable.
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Family dynamics, career progression, sex, love, xenophobia, lies, secrets, failing businesses, domestic violence, infidelity, owing people favours...this book covers a vast spectrum of what we all experience at some point in our lives. This is what makes it relatable. If you haven’t gone through what these couples have gone through, you sure know someone who has.
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“Not all that glitters is gold,” I would say this best sums up this book. On the exterior, all these couples seem to have it all and seem to be living great lives. But...step into the privacy of their homes then you know the true nature of their lives.
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Critical but, stable...that’s how one of the wives describes her marriage when her sister asks how things are going. After reading the book and going through rollercoasters with these couples, the title is so befitting for the book. These marriages were really critical...and some not stable.
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Easy and light read especially during this down time where many people would just want to relax and read something enjoyable.
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Intrigue...intrigue...intrigue...twist and turns. You just don’t know what will happen with these characters. This is what gets me hooked on Angela’s books. Her stories are such a whirlwind journey and so enjoyable.
📚
Family dynamics, career progression, sex, love, xenophobia, lies, secrets, failing businesses, domestic violence, infidelity, owing people favours...this book covers a vast spectrum of what we all experience at some point in our lives. This is what makes it relatable. If you haven’t gone through what these couples have gone through, you sure know someone who has.
📚
“Not all that glitters is gold,” I would say this best sums up this book. On the exterior, all these couples seem to have it all and seem to be living great lives. But...step into the privacy of their homes then you know the true nature of their lives.
📚
Critical but, stable...that’s how one of the wives describes her marriage when her sister asks how things are going. After reading the book and going through rollercoasters with these couples, the title is so befitting for the book. These marriages were really critical...and some not stable.
📚
Easy and light read especially during this down time where many people would just want to relax and read something enjoyable.
📚
December 20, 2020
This instalment of Angela Makholwa’s offering was a bit of a deviation from her normal work. I always saw her as more of a thriller writer, but this book was a bit light on the action and suspense, but very high on drama and comedy. This book had me in stitches. I even found myself reprimanding myself for rolling on the floor with laughter, at scenes that I should really be taking seriously.
The book centres around a group of pretentious acquaintances (I would hardly call them friends), who belong to an elite stockvel. The members of the stockvel comprise of married couples, whose external goals are to save money, but in reality their goals are to compete and show off to each other. The couples take turns to host monthly socials, where each social is more ostentatious than the last.
But alas, all is not well in the lives of the beautiful people. Behind closed doors lurks lies, deceit and betrayal. The high fences in their 5000 square foot yards conceal secrets that would have most people running for their lives. These people have mastered the art of showing people what they want them to see, while living a completely different life. They did this so effortlessly, that they even pulled it off with each other.
It was a light, fun and witty read. I cannot fault Angela on this book. I could not put it down, and if it wasn’t for a busy schedule, I would have read it in one day.
The book centres around a group of pretentious acquaintances (I would hardly call them friends), who belong to an elite stockvel. The members of the stockvel comprise of married couples, whose external goals are to save money, but in reality their goals are to compete and show off to each other. The couples take turns to host monthly socials, where each social is more ostentatious than the last.
But alas, all is not well in the lives of the beautiful people. Behind closed doors lurks lies, deceit and betrayal. The high fences in their 5000 square foot yards conceal secrets that would have most people running for their lives. These people have mastered the art of showing people what they want them to see, while living a completely different life. They did this so effortlessly, that they even pulled it off with each other.
It was a light, fun and witty read. I cannot fault Angela on this book. I could not put it down, and if it wasn’t for a busy schedule, I would have read it in one day.
January 3, 2021
This one will not go down as a personal favourite book by one of my favourite authors. Angela is still Angela for her skill with the pen and even herein it shows, still.
Loved the display of opulence throughout the book.
Loved the display of opulence throughout the book.
May 28, 2021
Let me start by venting...
I hated Mzwandile with all that is in me, the bloody asexual.
I am angry at the author for killing Lerato.
I have a crush on the Duke (his character resembled Nkosana for me of the famous Zulu Big eyed brothers zakwa Hlomu series - the matured one, the cool, the elder of the crew, the focused one, the patient one.. A lot more) ... So you know how I feel about where it ended so which makes me hate Prince.
I wish in my next life I can have a father like Lerato's dad.
I did not see relevance of Paul and Tom, worse because they joined the Khula society late, so I had high expectations for their characters for them to be introduced later in the story. They just became gay lovers nje who happen to be rich while the other 3 families had a lot going on.
The story is based on 3 high flying married couples who are members of Khula Society, a social club. Gosh the cars they drive, the houses they live in, their holiday houses, even the amounts they contribute in the society, they really have it all. You really wish to be one of them. But in their personal lives, inside those houses, it's not how it looks. With more money comes more problems. Infact, what is sad, the more they have, the more they want... They never get satisfied. The competition level is always high so are the debts they incur as they want to show off.
For me the story shares 2 important themes... The social and economic imbalance in this democratic country of ours. While we have the rich and famous, there are those who struggle just few meters away. In this story those are represented by the security guys, the helpers and the little Nthabi. They all wish their lives one day would turn and be like these high flying families. They are hopeful that God one day will smile on their side. It seems like He favors the few and rejects the whole lot. It's even sad because even those who we see as being favored disregard the other group. They are treated like trash. Like they can walk on top of you. It's even worse with black on black...This group is usually the bigger chunk in this world of ours than the 'chosen ones'.
The second theme... Women struggles in relationships regardless of social class they belong to. Women are being used, abused and are expected to handle themselves in a certain way by the society. It doesn't matter how difficult things are, they have to endure. It does not matter the social class they belong to, they can be reduced to zero by men and the society at large. When you stand up for yourself or act or react towards what your partner does or does not do, you are judged.
The story also briefly touches on the issues of how we have made foreigners to feel less of human beings. We question anything they do, it's like there's nothing good that can come out of them. We have labeled them to such an extent that we see ourselves as superior. Yes, we have the bad ones like we have bad South Africans too.
I loved how short the chapters were, so this made it an easy read for me.
I felt the author's skills more when that heist happened. The crime writer in her took a cup on that part. I was literally on my toes, I doubt I was blinking. I am not sure if it's because I fell so much for the Duke and I wanted nothing bad to happen to him or what but thanks Angela, I enjoyed the story. I liked the humor as well, like, how do you give a silent treatment to the dead? Oh, and how does one enjoy the beef burger like that?
I hated Mzwandile with all that is in me, the bloody asexual.
I am angry at the author for killing Lerato.
I have a crush on the Duke (his character resembled Nkosana for me of the famous Zulu Big eyed brothers zakwa Hlomu series - the matured one, the cool, the elder of the crew, the focused one, the patient one.. A lot more) ... So you know how I feel about where it ended so which makes me hate Prince.
I wish in my next life I can have a father like Lerato's dad.
I did not see relevance of Paul and Tom, worse because they joined the Khula society late, so I had high expectations for their characters for them to be introduced later in the story. They just became gay lovers nje who happen to be rich while the other 3 families had a lot going on.
The story is based on 3 high flying married couples who are members of Khula Society, a social club. Gosh the cars they drive, the houses they live in, their holiday houses, even the amounts they contribute in the society, they really have it all. You really wish to be one of them. But in their personal lives, inside those houses, it's not how it looks. With more money comes more problems. Infact, what is sad, the more they have, the more they want... They never get satisfied. The competition level is always high so are the debts they incur as they want to show off.
For me the story shares 2 important themes... The social and economic imbalance in this democratic country of ours. While we have the rich and famous, there are those who struggle just few meters away. In this story those are represented by the security guys, the helpers and the little Nthabi. They all wish their lives one day would turn and be like these high flying families. They are hopeful that God one day will smile on their side. It seems like He favors the few and rejects the whole lot. It's even sad because even those who we see as being favored disregard the other group. They are treated like trash. Like they can walk on top of you. It's even worse with black on black...This group is usually the bigger chunk in this world of ours than the 'chosen ones'.
The second theme... Women struggles in relationships regardless of social class they belong to. Women are being used, abused and are expected to handle themselves in a certain way by the society. It doesn't matter how difficult things are, they have to endure. It does not matter the social class they belong to, they can be reduced to zero by men and the society at large. When you stand up for yourself or act or react towards what your partner does or does not do, you are judged.
The story also briefly touches on the issues of how we have made foreigners to feel less of human beings. We question anything they do, it's like there's nothing good that can come out of them. We have labeled them to such an extent that we see ourselves as superior. Yes, we have the bad ones like we have bad South Africans too.
I loved how short the chapters were, so this made it an easy read for me.
I felt the author's skills more when that heist happened. The crime writer in her took a cup on that part. I was literally on my toes, I doubt I was blinking. I am not sure if it's because I fell so much for the Duke and I wanted nothing bad to happen to him or what but thanks Angela, I enjoyed the story. I liked the humor as well, like, how do you give a silent treatment to the dead? Oh, and how does one enjoy the beef burger like that?
August 19, 2021
'So,anyway....gotta run!"
Run Lawrence as fast you can.
It took me longer than expected, Angela Makholwa books usually are fast paced drama for me but this one not so much. Was really irritated by the short chapters but got the hang of it. This novel is all about the rich and their ridiculous decisions, trying to keep up with the facade and all. I loved the ending, nothing left hanging just a sealed chapter.
Run Lawrence as fast you can.
It took me longer than expected, Angela Makholwa books usually are fast paced drama for me but this one not so much. Was really irritated by the short chapters but got the hang of it. This novel is all about the rich and their ridiculous decisions, trying to keep up with the facade and all. I loved the ending, nothing left hanging just a sealed chapter.
September 25, 2021
What riveting read Angela Makholwa disappoints they twists and turns had me glued, wanting to know what happens next.
December 8, 2022
My first book from this author - I enjoyed the novel and read it very quickly. It focusses on a handful of dysfunctional couples who are in the same social circle. The first half of the book introduces all of the characters and the second half is full of “WAIT WHAT?” moments.
November 19, 2020
I'm not happy with what you did to The Duke.
December 7, 2022
This novel begins with a preamble that made me eager to read more. . We follow the lives of the Manamelas, Msibis, and Jiyas.
Why Lerato and not the Duke had to be the one to die?
entertaining but dull, full of wit.
Lesson Learnt : stop wishing you had what other people have without considering the price they paid to obtain it.
Why Lerato and not the Duke had to be the one to die?
entertaining but dull, full of wit.
Lesson Learnt : stop wishing you had what other people have without considering the price they paid to obtain it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2020
If there is anything this book has taught me , is that no one is perfect, how you choose to handle your i perfections is totally up to you. Run your own race mntase.
Cheating proves that one way or the other it will come out but how it comes out is not known...
Cheating proves that one way or the other it will come out but how it comes out is not known...
January 7, 2021
I've been struggling to get into the habit of reading lately and this is the ideal book to get me back in. You're hooked from the first page and the way Angela Makholwa writes feels as if you're at these catered and opulent events, listening in.
March 25, 2021
No one ever tells you the cost of a perfect life! The cost of a perfect life is staggering, that it is if there is a perfect! On the surface or from a distance, people appear to be having it nice. A closer scrutiny reveals nightmares, this is Critical But, Stable.
March 14, 2022
Our bookclub’s Book of the Month. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
December 21, 2022
I couldn’t put it down ! There was so much going on, I enjoyed all the drama. I just hate that there was a death and that ending could’ve been better :/
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