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Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband?
A total joy to read--hilarious, insightful, and so uplifting. Yinka is the most lovable character I've come across in a long time. --Beth O'Leary, international bestselling author of The Flatshare
Meet Yinka: a thirty-something, Oxford-educated, British Nigerian woman with a well-paid job, good friends, and a mother whose constant refrain is Yinka, where is your huzband?
Yinka's Nigerian aunties frequently pray for her delivery from singledom, her work friends think she's too traditional (she's saving herself for marriage!), her girlfriends think she needs to get over her ex already, and the men in her life . . . well, that's a whole other story. But Yinka herself has always believed that true love will find her when the time is right.
Still, when her cousin gets engaged, Yinka commences Operation Find-A-Date for Rachel's Wedding. Aided by a spreadsheet and her best friend, Yinka is determined to succeed. Will Yinka find herself a huzband? And what if the thing she really needs to find is herself?
Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband? brilliantly subverts the traditional romantic comedy with an unconventional heroine who bravely asks the questions we all have about love. Wry, acerbic, moving, this is a love story that makes you smile but also makes you think--and explores what it means to find your way between two cultures, both of which are yours.
Meet Yinka: a thirty-something, Oxford-educated, British Nigerian woman with a well-paid job, good friends, and a mother whose constant refrain is Yinka, where is your huzband?
Yinka's Nigerian aunties frequently pray for her delivery from singledom, her work friends think she's too traditional (she's saving herself for marriage!), her girlfriends think she needs to get over her ex already, and the men in her life . . . well, that's a whole other story. But Yinka herself has always believed that true love will find her when the time is right.
Still, when her cousin gets engaged, Yinka commences Operation Find-A-Date for Rachel's Wedding. Aided by a spreadsheet and her best friend, Yinka is determined to succeed. Will Yinka find herself a huzband? And what if the thing she really needs to find is herself?
Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband? brilliantly subverts the traditional romantic comedy with an unconventional heroine who bravely asks the questions we all have about love. Wry, acerbic, moving, this is a love story that makes you smile but also makes you think--and explores what it means to find your way between two cultures, both of which are yours.
384 pages, Paperback
First published January 18, 2022
974 people are currently reading
34783 people want to read
About the author
Lizzie Damilola Blackburn
3 books628 followersLizzie Damilola Blackburn is a British-Nigerian writer, born in Peckham, who wants to tell the stories that she and her friends have longed for but never seen – romcoms 'where Cinderella is Black and no-one bats an eyelid'. In 2019 she won the Literary Consultancy Pen Factor Writing Competition with the early draft of Yinka, Where is your Huzband?, which she had been writing alongside juggling her job at Carers UK. She has been at the receiving end of the question in the title of her novel many times, and now lives with her husband in Milton Keynes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,287 reviews
October 14, 2021
I find myself comparing books to Bridget Jones's Diary fairly often, just because it's so iconic, but now I think maybe I should've saved the comparison for Yinka. This feels like the spiritual heir to Bridget Jones, while still being so modern and fresh. Yinka is hilarious and relatable, and her mishaps--and meddling aunties--are charming even as they occasionally have you cringing from the secondhand embarrassment. This book is an excellent reminder that we're all a little bit of a mess, and that's okay. Sometimes it's even fun.
May 19, 2022
4.5⭐️
“You need to define who you are otherwise people will happily do it for you."
Now see, I only prefer a rollercoaster of a book if it is all tied together by the end. This one had me mad, laughing, mad, and then laughing again.
Yinka is single, and her mom and other family members and friends make sure to remind her as much as possible. So the majority of this is her trying to find a partner. If you’re like me, you’re probably rolling your eyes, and I probably turned you off, but I promise that is worth it because there are strong messages tied to the events that occur throughout the story.
Yinka represents a lot of women who don’t have a lot of self-confidence. Because of her early life experiences, she has been led to believe that she is to be blamed for her singleness. This book really kept pushing it with my emotions because it was so frustrating that she couldn’t see that she wasn’t the problem. Nevertheless, her feelings were pretty realistic and it was comforting to see her have a superb growth by the end. I’m glad that she discovered that the root of her problems could also stem from the kind of people she is surrounded by. Her friends weren’t the best but it was super cool to see them all grow together. We usually see growth focused on the main character, but a lot of characters in this one had some growth which was amazing.
Yinka is a British Nigerian, and the aspects of culture are brought up a lot. I always love seeing authors incorporating facets of a character’s identity into the story. It helped explain the many issues that Yinka was facing as some issues are more prevalent in other cultures than others. Female empowerment, for example, is really crucial in African communities and I loved that Blackburn reveals this with the plot in the book.
I love a raw book that is not afraid to have super flawed characters. I just need to see some growth or at least have it clear to me that there is a reason for having characters that literally drive you crazy. This book was also pretty funny and the ending had me transporting myself into the book just to applaud Yinka for how far she has come.
“You need to define who you are otherwise people will happily do it for you."
Now see, I only prefer a rollercoaster of a book if it is all tied together by the end. This one had me mad, laughing, mad, and then laughing again.
Yinka is single, and her mom and other family members and friends make sure to remind her as much as possible. So the majority of this is her trying to find a partner. If you’re like me, you’re probably rolling your eyes, and I probably turned you off, but I promise that is worth it because there are strong messages tied to the events that occur throughout the story.
Yinka represents a lot of women who don’t have a lot of self-confidence. Because of her early life experiences, she has been led to believe that she is to be blamed for her singleness. This book really kept pushing it with my emotions because it was so frustrating that she couldn’t see that she wasn’t the problem. Nevertheless, her feelings were pretty realistic and it was comforting to see her have a superb growth by the end. I’m glad that she discovered that the root of her problems could also stem from the kind of people she is surrounded by. Her friends weren’t the best but it was super cool to see them all grow together. We usually see growth focused on the main character, but a lot of characters in this one had some growth which was amazing.
Yinka is a British Nigerian, and the aspects of culture are brought up a lot. I always love seeing authors incorporating facets of a character’s identity into the story. It helped explain the many issues that Yinka was facing as some issues are more prevalent in other cultures than others. Female empowerment, for example, is really crucial in African communities and I loved that Blackburn reveals this with the plot in the book.
I love a raw book that is not afraid to have super flawed characters. I just need to see some growth or at least have it clear to me that there is a reason for having characters that literally drive you crazy. This book was also pretty funny and the ending had me transporting myself into the book just to applaud Yinka for how far she has come.
January 18, 2022
Yinka, where’s your spine?
April 27, 2022
Wow! What an amazing debut novel! I am blown away. This book was definitely not what I was expecting, but in the best way possible. This book is refreshing, warm, funny at times, and just an all around fantastic feel good story. This book is full of Nigerian culture and I learned about it. I just adored Yinka’s character. I felt for her so many times throughout the book, a lot of anger, and joy for her as well. Overall, a fantastic read! Highly recommend! I will for sure be reading any of Lizzie Damilola Blackburn’s future novels.
January 30, 2022
I really hate when I get so excited about a book and it's just a dud. And this one was for sure a dud. And it sounded so cute! That title! Nigerian immigrants in Britain! A black Bridget Jones bemoaning the pressures of being single! But it was just . . . uninteresting. I mention Bridget Jones because 50% of the reviews I've read of it compare it to Bridget Jones's Diary, and aside from this also focusing on singleness as a topic, they couldn't be more different. For starters, Bridget is funny. This book is not. It's also a romance! This book is not. There is no HEA here, which is fine! But you should know going in, it's a book about Yinka finding herself, not a book about Yinka finding her huzband.
And it's not just me. Several of my BOTM crew (multiple text threads at this point) also picked this book as an add-on choice this month, and all three of us were disappointed, one of us to the point of DNFing (not me, oh I pushed all the way until the end!)
The last fifteen pages or so were actually pretty good, but the rest of it was really not. The person who has the most personality in the book is Yinka's mom, but until the very end, she has exactly one characteristic: reinforcing the patriarchy via prayer and pressure on your children. Get married, have babies, get married, have babies. I know that's the point, but the experience of her is really not nuanced. The rest of the characters, including Yinka, (with the possible exception of Yinka's best friend Nana and former coworker Donovan) had no personality. It wasn't funny. It wasn't moving. It wasn't really anything. Just this happened then this happened. Yinka is a 30 year old, well educated, religious virgin who feels pressure to get married, and that's what I know about her. The dialogue was mostly empty of substance for me, and there was a lot of it (including the most dull text messaging I've ever seen in a piece of fiction).
I mostly am just disappointed that a perspective like this didn't get the treatment it deserved. A religious heroine respectful of other's choices who believes sex is sacred could have been really interested to read about! Experiencing nuanced family dynamics through the clash of cultures, also could have been really interesting. Experiencing a by-choice virgin dating men in a misogynistic world, also could have been interesting. None of that was mined for conflict. Some of it was touched on, but barely. Instead, we get a plot about Yinka "changing herself" (she barely changes) and one time she lies about going to counseling, and one time she blurts a secret about her cousin at a wedding shower. Her friends then treat her to an intervention and act like she's started murdering animals in the street.
This one, in short, was not for me. I wish others better luck.
[2.5 stars]
And it's not just me. Several of my BOTM crew (multiple text threads at this point) also picked this book as an add-on choice this month, and all three of us were disappointed, one of us to the point of DNFing (not me, oh I pushed all the way until the end!)
The last fifteen pages or so were actually pretty good, but the rest of it was really not. The person who has the most personality in the book is Yinka's mom, but until the very end, she has exactly one characteristic: reinforcing the patriarchy via prayer and pressure on your children. Get married, have babies, get married, have babies. I know that's the point, but the experience of her is really not nuanced. The rest of the characters, including Yinka, (with the possible exception of Yinka's best friend Nana and former coworker Donovan) had no personality. It wasn't funny. It wasn't moving. It wasn't really anything. Just this happened then this happened. Yinka is a 30 year old, well educated, religious virgin who feels pressure to get married, and that's what I know about her. The dialogue was mostly empty of substance for me, and there was a lot of it (including the most dull text messaging I've ever seen in a piece of fiction).
I mostly am just disappointed that a perspective like this didn't get the treatment it deserved. A religious heroine respectful of other's choices who believes sex is sacred could have been really interested to read about! Experiencing nuanced family dynamics through the clash of cultures, also could have been really interesting. Experiencing a by-choice virgin dating men in a misogynistic world, also could have been interesting. None of that was mined for conflict. Some of it was touched on, but barely. Instead, we get a plot about Yinka "changing herself" (she barely changes) and one time she lies about going to counseling, and one time she blurts a secret about her cousin at a wedding shower. Her friends then treat her to an intervention and act like she's started murdering animals in the street.
This one, in short, was not for me. I wish others better luck.
[2.5 stars]
August 16, 2024
4/5 ⭐️ This was so good! It was funny but also heartfelt. I loved Yinka and seeing her character develop. She was really insecure about her appearance and she felt as though no one would want her because of that. But when she realized that she didn’t have to change herself to find love, it was really satisfying to witness.
Seeing how much she wanted to date Alex and how she was changing herself to make sure that he liked her actually broke my heart 😭. Nana was such a good friend to her for keeping it real and letting her know that she didn’t have to change her appearance for anyone!
I also felt bad about her family constantly wanting her to get married and all the pressure they were putting on her because she’s in her 30’s and not married yet 😭. Like leave my girl alone please! But I understand where they were coming from because my culture is very similar to hers and they are constantly doing the things they did to Yinka 😆.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the message behind it. It also made me laugh out loud a few times 😆. I did wish Yinka would have stood up to Ola sooner though. Ola was getting on my nerves with her cattiness! I’m glad they worked it out in the end though 😌.
Seeing how much she wanted to date Alex and how she was changing herself to make sure that he liked her actually broke my heart 😭. Nana was such a good friend to her for keeping it real and letting her know that she didn’t have to change her appearance for anyone!
I also felt bad about her family constantly wanting her to get married and all the pressure they were putting on her because she’s in her 30’s and not married yet 😭. Like leave my girl alone please! But I understand where they were coming from because my culture is very similar to hers and they are constantly doing the things they did to Yinka 😆.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the message behind it. It also made me laugh out loud a few times 😆. I did wish Yinka would have stood up to Ola sooner though. Ola was getting on my nerves with her cattiness! I’m glad they worked it out in the end though 😌.
April 16, 2022
Yinka is a British Nigerian woman in her early 30s with a good job, a close family, and a solid circle of friends. But, she’s single and her mom and most of her aunts rarely let her forget it, with one aunt going as far as publicly praying for God to deliver Yinka from the single life, during her sister’s baby shower.
When her cousin gets engaged, Yinka makes a plan to find a find a date for the wedding, sometimes going to great lengths along the way. While she attempts to date, Yinka must also deal with unexpected work news and tension that’s building in her circle of friends.
I really enjoyed this story — I liked learning a little more about Nigerian culture and appreciated the London references even more after my recent trip there. I was rooting for Yinka throughout the book. I didn’t agree with all of her decisions but I admired who she was as a character.
Yinka, Where is Your Huzband? is a great debut about staying true to yourself and I look forward to seeing what Lizzie Damilola Blackburn writes next!
When her cousin gets engaged, Yinka makes a plan to find a find a date for the wedding, sometimes going to great lengths along the way. While she attempts to date, Yinka must also deal with unexpected work news and tension that’s building in her circle of friends.
I really enjoyed this story — I liked learning a little more about Nigerian culture and appreciated the London references even more after my recent trip there. I was rooting for Yinka throughout the book. I didn’t agree with all of her decisions but I admired who she was as a character.
Yinka, Where is Your Huzband? is a great debut about staying true to yourself and I look forward to seeing what Lizzie Damilola Blackburn writes next!
January 10, 2022
Picture yourself at your sister's baby shower. Your cousins and aunties gather around and remind you that you are past 30 and still single. One overzealous auntie raises her hands up in a spontaneous and very long prayer on that very subject. Welcome to Yinka's life. Even though I am not Nigerian, I am a sister in Christ with women like Yinka. Her faith was a visible, tangible piece of who she was. We all struggle with the "when will I find love" problem and the "am I in the right career" question, and "why do the men I meet want a woman who looks like (fill in the blank)" dilemma. Women of color will most definitely be able to relate to Yinka in even deeper ways due to her struggles with colorism and honoring her Nigerian roots. There is a lot to unpack in this book, yet it still has a light tone and is an enjoyable read. Alternate formats like text conversations, internet searches, and calendar reminders are sprinkled in adding variety. A wonderful debut. Looking forward to seeing more from this author.
Thank you to Penguin Group and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Penguin Group and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
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December 14, 2022Singleton in 30s feeling the pressure to get a man and behaving absurdly as a result, including a series of unsuitable suitors. This is a women's fiction staple plot so everything is in the execution, which I liked a lot. The British-Nigerian setting and culture is done with depth and vividness, the characters bounce off the page, and the story rips along. It's also got a lot of chewy stuff, especially Yinka's battle with colourism (including her own internalised colourism), and where family/cultural pressures go bad, and the question of who you let set the agenda for your life. Yinka does come across a bit spineless at first in that respect, but has a very satisfying learning curve in discovering her vertebrae. Her eventual love interest is very nicely drawn, the friend/family group is great (this is massively a book about the importance of women having one another's backs), and it's a warm-hearted enjoyable read.
I would not call this a romance in genre terms, or indeed a romcom, myself, but I appear to be entirely out of step with what is counted as a romcom these days mumble mutter /hobbles off/
I would not call this a romance in genre terms, or indeed a romcom, myself, but I appear to be entirely out of step with what is counted as a romcom these days mumble mutter /hobbles off/
March 31, 2022
I’ve seen Yinka referenced as an updated Bridget Jones and I’ll certainly allow it. Like my darling Bridg, Yinka is a bit of a lost soul. At 30-something the man she was with for three years and was positive she would marry has dumped her. Her sure-to-be promotion has instead resulted in her termination due to redundancy. Her best pals all seem to be moving on to different phases of their lives, leaving her in the dust. Not to mention her pregnant sister has Yinka’s mother beating the dead horse asking “where is your huzband?!?!?!?!?!”
For the most part I thought this was an okay debut, but definitely one where the end message has to be worth the struggle of the story as a whole in order to obtain a high(er) rating. The major complaint I had was poor Yinka severely needed an . . . .
It finally came, but not before I had made a least a dozen notes regarding her personality being more befitting of a 13 year old rather than a grown woman. Talk about someone with zero social clues when it came to the opposite sex! But aside from wanting to shake the shit out of her when it came to matters of the heart, I mostly enjoyed reading about Yinka and her friends. While the culture may have been different, the trials and tribulations will be familiar to many women (get married/have babies or you’re a failure) and Yinka’s personal issues with self-esteem and self-worth due to her dark skin was something readers will empathize with.
But if you’re looking for a romance, this is not the book for you. This one is all about learning how to love YOURSELF.
For the most part I thought this was an okay debut, but definitely one where the end message has to be worth the struggle of the story as a whole in order to obtain a high(er) rating. The major complaint I had was poor Yinka severely needed an . . . .
It finally came, but not before I had made a least a dozen notes regarding her personality being more befitting of a 13 year old rather than a grown woman. Talk about someone with zero social clues when it came to the opposite sex! But aside from wanting to shake the shit out of her when it came to matters of the heart, I mostly enjoyed reading about Yinka and her friends. While the culture may have been different, the trials and tribulations will be familiar to many women (get married/have babies or you’re a failure) and Yinka’s personal issues with self-esteem and self-worth due to her dark skin was something readers will empathize with.
But if you’re looking for a romance, this is not the book for you. This one is all about learning how to love YOURSELF.
January 26, 2022
1. This is not a romance novel. I feel like I keep getting catfished by books pretending to be romance novels. The story is not focused on a romance between Yinka and anyone else. It also doesn’t have an HEA. It has a hint of a possible future relationship at the end only, and Yinka spends no more than 10 pages of the book interacting with him.
2. Yinka acts like an oblivious, lying 15 year old for most of the book and I might have enjoyed it as a YA novel that focuses on loving yourself, body image, colorism, and how to navigate being British and Nigerian. But I didn’t have any sympathy for the situations she lied herself into, and all the relationships she wrecked were somehow fixed after one therapy session and a good cry. It was frustrating, annoying, and unrealistic.
3. If I hadn’t been reading this for a book challenge I would have DNF’d it happily. At like 4 different places. So disappointing.
2. Yinka acts like an oblivious, lying 15 year old for most of the book and I might have enjoyed it as a YA novel that focuses on loving yourself, body image, colorism, and how to navigate being British and Nigerian. But I didn’t have any sympathy for the situations she lied herself into, and all the relationships she wrecked were somehow fixed after one therapy session and a good cry. It was frustrating, annoying, and unrealistic.
3. If I hadn’t been reading this for a book challenge I would have DNF’d it happily. At like 4 different places. So disappointing.
May 24, 2023
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Rating: 4 stars
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (bright blue background with illustration of Yinka on a ring)
This simple design nicely conveys what the story is about. The vibrant colours also make the cover eye-catching and appealing.
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The relaxed, casual writing style is strengthened by vivid descriptions that keep the story engaging and immersive. I also loved the media elements, such as text messages, emails and internet searches, which made the story more interesting.
"There’s something about helping people that’s good for the soul"
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The story jumps right into the drama of Yinka's dating woes while gradually introducing the key characters. Despite a few predictable moments, the storyline remained entertaining as themes such as colourism and mental health were explored. I especially loved the message of empowerment and self-love, which gave a heartwarming ending complete with a movie-worthy closing scene.
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The embarrassing events Yinka faces, plus the cultural and faith aspects of her life, meant I quickly connected with her character. Even as she encountered waves of insecurities that led to increasingly bad decisions, her struggle was so realistic I remained invested in her well-being and character development.
"You need to define who you are. Otherwise, people will happily do it for you"
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The strong females who make up the majority of secondary characters were made memorable through their distinct personalities and growth. In particular, Yinka's best friend, Nina, stands out for her self-confidence and aromantic representation. The remaining male characters are given much less depth, but they help drive the storyline.
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Although this book has very little romance, I enjoyed the slow-burn attraction that Yinka experiences. The banter and cute moments between the characters were so nicely done I was soon rooting for them and waiting impatiently for scenes with them together.
Narration & Audio: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Ronke Adekoluejo does a great job delivering the emotions and accents needed to create a lovely listening experience. Sound effects for text messages and emails also ensure the audio is engaging.
While 'Yinka, Where is Your Husband?' is not your typical romantic comedy, I still enjoyed it! The story nicely explores the insecurities and pressures that can snowball while single - specifically in the context of Nigerian culture. Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams is another book that presents the self-love journey of a black female protagonist, so check that out if you love this.
Rating: 4 stars
Cover: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (bright blue background with illustration of Yinka on a ring)
This simple design nicely conveys what the story is about. The vibrant colours also make the cover eye-catching and appealing.
Writing: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The relaxed, casual writing style is strengthened by vivid descriptions that keep the story engaging and immersive. I also loved the media elements, such as text messages, emails and internet searches, which made the story more interesting.
"There’s something about helping people that’s good for the soul"
Storyline: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The story jumps right into the drama of Yinka's dating woes while gradually introducing the key characters. Despite a few predictable moments, the storyline remained entertaining as themes such as colourism and mental health were explored. I especially loved the message of empowerment and self-love, which gave a heartwarming ending complete with a movie-worthy closing scene.
Main character(s): 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The embarrassing events Yinka faces, plus the cultural and faith aspects of her life, meant I quickly connected with her character. Even as she encountered waves of insecurities that led to increasingly bad decisions, her struggle was so realistic I remained invested in her well-being and character development.
"You need to define who you are. Otherwise, people will happily do it for you"
Secondary characters: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The strong females who make up the majority of secondary characters were made memorable through their distinct personalities and growth. In particular, Yinka's best friend, Nina, stands out for her self-confidence and aromantic representation. The remaining male characters are given much less depth, but they help drive the storyline.
Romance: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Although this book has very little romance, I enjoyed the slow-burn attraction that Yinka experiences. The banter and cute moments between the characters were so nicely done I was soon rooting for them and waiting impatiently for scenes with them together.
Narration & Audio: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Ronke Adekoluejo does a great job delivering the emotions and accents needed to create a lovely listening experience. Sound effects for text messages and emails also ensure the audio is engaging.
While 'Yinka, Where is Your Husband?' is not your typical romantic comedy, I still enjoyed it! The story nicely explores the insecurities and pressures that can snowball while single - specifically in the context of Nigerian culture. Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams is another book that presents the self-love journey of a black female protagonist, so check that out if you love this.
August 17, 2024
Entertaining, engaging and laugh out loud funny
What an adventure, I absolutely in-haled this book and I think you will too. Yinka, Where’s Your Husband? opens with Yinka attending her younger sister’s baby shower. In the middle of the baby shower her aunty decides to pray for her, included in the prayer is for Yinka to find a husband. Yinka is a 30-something, Oxford-educated, British Nigerian woman with a well-paid job, good friends, and a family whose constant refrain is "Yinka, where is your huzband?"
After being mortified, Yinka decides that things will have to change. Everyone she knows is getting engaged, having children or finding the love of their life and she feels forever single. She knows she will find true love, but WHEN? She decides to do an “Operation Find A Date” for her friend’s wedding. She says yes to every blind date- even that one her Aunty sets her up on. What will happen when Yinka finally decides to wait for love to find her?
I am not a big romance girlie but I enjoyed this one. It felt fresh, rooted in Nigerian tradition and culture. The entire time I was screaming, “Yinka, that man is NOT for you!!!” It is such a wild ride. This is the perfect book for anyone going through a reading slump.
What an adventure, I absolutely in-haled this book and I think you will too. Yinka, Where’s Your Husband? opens with Yinka attending her younger sister’s baby shower. In the middle of the baby shower her aunty decides to pray for her, included in the prayer is for Yinka to find a husband. Yinka is a 30-something, Oxford-educated, British Nigerian woman with a well-paid job, good friends, and a family whose constant refrain is "Yinka, where is your huzband?"
After being mortified, Yinka decides that things will have to change. Everyone she knows is getting engaged, having children or finding the love of their life and she feels forever single. She knows she will find true love, but WHEN? She decides to do an “Operation Find A Date” for her friend’s wedding. She says yes to every blind date- even that one her Aunty sets her up on. What will happen when Yinka finally decides to wait for love to find her?
I am not a big romance girlie but I enjoyed this one. It felt fresh, rooted in Nigerian tradition and culture. The entire time I was screaming, “Yinka, that man is NOT for you!!!” It is such a wild ride. This is the perfect book for anyone going through a reading slump.
April 3, 2022
3.5 rounded up because this was my life at 31 to a certain degree. I recommend this for someone looking for a rom-com type of book and the ending was really neat in terms of how it all wrapped up but that is also to be somewhat expected with it being like a rom-com
Watch me discuss this in my March wrap up https://youtu.be/KS2pdNwyfaY
Watch me discuss this in my March wrap up https://youtu.be/KS2pdNwyfaY
April 28, 2022
So, I wanted to like this book, but I had two challenges.
1. I was promised a rom-com. There was no romance and the comic moments were few and far between.
2. Yinka is too old to be learning that it’s not okay to lie to your friends and family and it’s wrong to “borrow” your roommate’s clothes. She also felt entitled to her love interest’s affection and behaved deplorably when he didn’t return her feelings.
I feel like I’d have more tolerance for her behaviour if this was a coming of age story. But such behaviour from an otherwise well-adjusted woman in her thirties was bizarre to me. Maybe I’d have felt differently if we were given a reason for her being a late bloomer, or if she’d had that Bridget Jones charm.
The third act saved this book for me and bumped the rating up from 2,5 to 3 ⭐️.
1. I was promised a rom-com. There was no romance and the comic moments were few and far between.
2. Yinka is too old to be learning that it’s not okay to lie to your friends and family and it’s wrong to “borrow” your roommate’s clothes. She also felt entitled to her love interest’s affection and behaved deplorably when he didn’t return her feelings.
I feel like I’d have more tolerance for her behaviour if this was a coming of age story. But such behaviour from an otherwise well-adjusted woman in her thirties was bizarre to me. Maybe I’d have felt differently if we were given a reason for her being a late bloomer, or if she’d had that Bridget Jones charm.
The third act saved this book for me and bumped the rating up from 2,5 to 3 ⭐️.
March 7, 2022
not really sure how i feel?!?! it was quick and different but i felt like the character wasn’t mature for being in her mid thirties and i kept questioning her age throughout the book bc of some things she did/said!
it was also definitely more of a self journey/self love book vs. romance.
not the best, not the worst. likely forgettable 🤷🏼♀️
it was also definitely more of a self journey/self love book vs. romance.
not the best, not the worst. likely forgettable 🤷🏼♀️
January 30, 2022
Yinka is a very unlikable character and the book is full of cliches and stereotype
April 12, 2022
Funny, touching, and uplifting.
This is a story about love, family, and traditions/expectations. I enjoyed being immersed into Yinka's journey and Nigerian culture. The storyline is authentic and delivers a powerful message. I'm impressed by this debut novel and am now looking forward to more by this author.
I recommend the audiobook. The narration is fantastic and made the story real by giving Yinka a voice.
This is a story about love, family, and traditions/expectations. I enjoyed being immersed into Yinka's journey and Nigerian culture. The storyline is authentic and delivers a powerful message. I'm impressed by this debut novel and am now looking forward to more by this author.
I recommend the audiobook. The narration is fantastic and made the story real by giving Yinka a voice.
September 14, 2025
3.5/5
- If you’re feeling like you have no idea what is in store for you after college and you’re feeling behind in life, please pick this book up! This truly felt like a coming of age novel for the end of your 20s and early 30s!
- I love how Yinka always seemed to say the wrong thing or make the wrong decision. She felt so relatable!
- Will definitely recommend this book and I really feel like this is a book every woman should read!
- If you’re feeling like you have no idea what is in store for you after college and you’re feeling behind in life, please pick this book up! This truly felt like a coming of age novel for the end of your 20s and early 30s!
- I love how Yinka always seemed to say the wrong thing or make the wrong decision. She felt so relatable!
- Will definitely recommend this book and I really feel like this is a book every woman should read!
March 6, 2022
[2.5] Yinka learns to love herself. Some cute moments but simplistic with a heavy dose of Christianity.
March 28, 2023
This was SOOO good. If you like Bridget Jones, this is definitely your vibe.
Not at all cheesy, but told with such warmth, humour and vivdity that you can picture the world of Yinka i revelled in this far more than i expected to.
Not at all cheesy, but told with such warmth, humour and vivdity that you can picture the world of Yinka i revelled in this far more than i expected to.
November 9, 2021
Lizzie Blackburn writes with a witty tenderness and absorbing fluidity that brings Yinka, the most loveable character you'll meet, to rich life! I cheered for her, cringed for her, and rooted for her all the way. A fabulously fresh debut guaranteed to warm your heart. Loved it!
July 11, 2024
Another timely book for me.
"My first thought is, I wonder if she met him on that dating website. Then my second thought is, I'm so happy for her. Just goes to show that you can find love at any age."
☆☆☆☆☆ (5 stars)
"Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband?" by Lizzie Damilola Blackburn is a novel that resonated deeply with me, touching on themes of cultural expectations, personal identity, and the search for love. As a 28-year-old dark-skinned Black woman who is single, this book hit home in ways I didn't expect. It’s a must-read for Black women who find themselves up in age and still single, feeling the weight of societal and familial pressures.
The plot revolves around Yinka, a British-Nigerian woman in her early 30s, who is constantly reminded by her family, especially her mother and Aunties, about the importance of finding a husband. Yinka is an Oxford graduate with a good job, but in the eyes of her family, her achievements are overshadowed by her single status. The story follows her journey as she grapples with these expectations, all while trying to stay true to herself.
What stands out in this novel are the characters, each meticulously crafted with unique personalities. Yinka is a relatable protagonist – intelligent, kind-hearted, and sometimes insecure about her future. Her internal struggles with self-worth and societal pressures are portrayed with such authenticity that you can't help but root for her.
Nana, Yinka’s best friend, is a beacon of support and wisdom. Their friendship is beautifully depicted, showcasing the kind of bond many of us yearn for. Nana is that friend who tells it like it is, offering tough love when needed but always with genuine care. Their interactions are filled with humor and warmth, making their friendship one to aspire to.
Every character in the book, from Yinka’s strict but loving mother to her vivacious Aunty Blessing, is memorable. Aunty Blessing, in particular, is a testament to finding love at any age. Her story is a reminder that love doesn’t have a deadline and that we can embrace it whenever it comes our way.
Lizzie Damilola Blackburn’s writing shines in her ability to redeem characters who might initially be perceived as unlikable. For instance, Yinka's mother, who seems overbearing at first, is gradually shown to be acting out of deep love and concern for her daughter’s happiness. This nuanced portrayal of characters adds depth to the story and makes it more realistic.
One of the aspects I love most about this novel is how it stays true to Yoruba culture. The incorporation of the Yoruba language and cultural references adds authenticity and richness to the narrative. Words like “ọ̀rọ̀,” meaning “trouble,” and “ẹ̀gbẹ́,” meaning “community,” are seamlessly woven into the dialogue, grounding the story in its cultural context.
As someone who has contemplated the possibility of not finding love and instead focusing on myself, "Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband?" felt like a much-needed affirmation. It reassures readers that our worth is not defined by our relationship status. Yinka’s journey towards self-acceptance and understanding her worth outside of societal expectations is empowering.
The novel’s humor is another highlight. Blackburn’s witty writing brings lightness to serious topics, making the book an enjoyable read from start to finish. Scenes where Yinka attends awkward blind dates or tries to fit into the expectations of her community are both funny and poignant, reflecting the absurdities many of us face in similar situations.
In summary, "Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband?" is a celebration of Black womanhood, friendship, and self-love. Lizzie Damilola Blackburn has crafted a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. It’s a book that reminds us that we are enough just as we are, and that love, in all its forms, can come at any stage in life. For every Black woman who has felt the pressure of finding love, this book is a reminder to embrace your journey, honor your worth, and know that you are not alone. Highly recommended!
"My first thought is, I wonder if she met him on that dating website. Then my second thought is, I'm so happy for her. Just goes to show that you can find love at any age."
☆☆☆☆☆ (5 stars)
"Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband?" by Lizzie Damilola Blackburn is a novel that resonated deeply with me, touching on themes of cultural expectations, personal identity, and the search for love. As a 28-year-old dark-skinned Black woman who is single, this book hit home in ways I didn't expect. It’s a must-read for Black women who find themselves up in age and still single, feeling the weight of societal and familial pressures.
The plot revolves around Yinka, a British-Nigerian woman in her early 30s, who is constantly reminded by her family, especially her mother and Aunties, about the importance of finding a husband. Yinka is an Oxford graduate with a good job, but in the eyes of her family, her achievements are overshadowed by her single status. The story follows her journey as she grapples with these expectations, all while trying to stay true to herself.
What stands out in this novel are the characters, each meticulously crafted with unique personalities. Yinka is a relatable protagonist – intelligent, kind-hearted, and sometimes insecure about her future. Her internal struggles with self-worth and societal pressures are portrayed with such authenticity that you can't help but root for her.
Nana, Yinka’s best friend, is a beacon of support and wisdom. Their friendship is beautifully depicted, showcasing the kind of bond many of us yearn for. Nana is that friend who tells it like it is, offering tough love when needed but always with genuine care. Their interactions are filled with humor and warmth, making their friendship one to aspire to.
Every character in the book, from Yinka’s strict but loving mother to her vivacious Aunty Blessing, is memorable. Aunty Blessing, in particular, is a testament to finding love at any age. Her story is a reminder that love doesn’t have a deadline and that we can embrace it whenever it comes our way.
Lizzie Damilola Blackburn’s writing shines in her ability to redeem characters who might initially be perceived as unlikable. For instance, Yinka's mother, who seems overbearing at first, is gradually shown to be acting out of deep love and concern for her daughter’s happiness. This nuanced portrayal of characters adds depth to the story and makes it more realistic.
One of the aspects I love most about this novel is how it stays true to Yoruba culture. The incorporation of the Yoruba language and cultural references adds authenticity and richness to the narrative. Words like “ọ̀rọ̀,” meaning “trouble,” and “ẹ̀gbẹ́,” meaning “community,” are seamlessly woven into the dialogue, grounding the story in its cultural context.
As someone who has contemplated the possibility of not finding love and instead focusing on myself, "Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband?" felt like a much-needed affirmation. It reassures readers that our worth is not defined by our relationship status. Yinka’s journey towards self-acceptance and understanding her worth outside of societal expectations is empowering.
The novel’s humor is another highlight. Blackburn’s witty writing brings lightness to serious topics, making the book an enjoyable read from start to finish. Scenes where Yinka attends awkward blind dates or tries to fit into the expectations of her community are both funny and poignant, reflecting the absurdities many of us face in similar situations.
In summary, "Yinka, Where Is Your Huzband?" is a celebration of Black womanhood, friendship, and self-love. Lizzie Damilola Blackburn has crafted a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. It’s a book that reminds us that we are enough just as we are, and that love, in all its forms, can come at any stage in life. For every Black woman who has felt the pressure of finding love, this book is a reminder to embrace your journey, honor your worth, and know that you are not alone. Highly recommended!
December 19, 2021
I’ll give this to the book, the content definitely supports the title. Yes, the author thrashes your head into the theme of dating angst repeatedly in every chapter like an abusive relationship. And look, I was single for a long time in my adulthood, and I did not harp on my singleness as much as Yinka does even at my most neurotic.
And really, besides her singleness, religion, and general prudishness, Yinka did not have much of a personality nor did any of the other characters. Sure, some could cook traditional Nigerian food and some could not, and some allegedly have better butts than others, but that’s about all I got about these people in 300+ pages.
I won the book as part of a Goodreads giveaway. I guess that a good thing because I would be really disappointed if I paid money for this redundant, trope filled novel.
And really, besides her singleness, religion, and general prudishness, Yinka did not have much of a personality nor did any of the other characters. Sure, some could cook traditional Nigerian food and some could not, and some allegedly have better butts than others, but that’s about all I got about these people in 300+ pages.
I won the book as part of a Goodreads giveaway. I guess that a good thing because I would be really disappointed if I paid money for this redundant, trope filled novel.
March 20, 2022
5 wonderful stars for Yinka, Nana, Donovan, and this whole cast of characters! (Thank you Doubleday Canada for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review).
Oh man, this book was so good! A lot more focus on the self-journey more than anything. It was really cool to see Yinka’s character grow, and the ending! THE ENDING.
I love everything this book stands for, and how the issues with identity (being too dark/not light enough to be beautiful) were also brought up. Lizzie wrote the book that Yinka needed growing up, basically.
Highly recommend this for more than just light reading, or if you like your contemporary romance novels with more of a focus on loving yourself.
Oh man, this book was so good! A lot more focus on the self-journey more than anything. It was really cool to see Yinka’s character grow, and the ending! THE ENDING.
I love everything this book stands for, and how the issues with identity (being too dark/not light enough to be beautiful) were also brought up. Lizzie wrote the book that Yinka needed growing up, basically.
Highly recommend this for more than just light reading, or if you like your contemporary romance novels with more of a focus on loving yourself.
September 25, 2022
3.5
Lily Reads Bookclub pick
Lily Reads Bookclub pick
January 17, 2022
I really wanted to like this book, what a shame. It could have been 200 pages shorter if Yinka had acted like the 30 year old woman she is instead of lying all the time. What little plot/tension there was in the book was caused solely by Yinka not being honest.
July 4, 2022
This book is boring and frustrating. Yinka reads as an immature 13 year old, not a 32 year old professional who went to Oxford. Skip it.
March 2, 2022
You know that feeling when it’s extremely hot outside and you finally get to taste that first sip of ice cold water and everything ends up feeling right in the world? This story is that first sip of fresh cold water.
It’s difficult finding stories that embody relationships, both familial and romantic ones, while continuing to center the importance of the “self” in a story like this. But Lizzie did just that. I especially enjoyed the depiction of family and relationships, and how often tight-knit families (Nigerian in this story, but relatable for people from all different cultures) can sometimes be too involved in your life. Yinka is a 31-year-old woman who is unmarried, unemployed, and in her mind, unwanted. Her mother and all of her Aunties are constantly praying for her to find a huzband. However, Yinka spends majority of the story trying to convince her family she’s perfectly okay being single.
Through failed dates, changes in her appearance, and several interventions, Yinka learns (at times, learns the hard way) how to love all of the things that make her uniquely her. In the end with a little bit of help from her friends, God, and her therapist, she finds her way back to herself and it’s a beautiful and exciting journey to watch.
This a great book to pick up if you’re looking for a dramatic, contemporary novel that is both fun and extremely lively. I really enjoyed getting to see Yinka’s relationships with each person in her life and how difficult it can be to have a big family that knows no boundaries. The only downfall for me personally, was the ending felt a bit rushed. There was definitely a dramatic fall-out that I think was too quickly resolved and I would’ve also loved to have seen the love interest (which is super by the way haha) and Yinka’s relationship in the future and how it played out. Otherwise, such a great novel and one I would certainly recommend.
It’s difficult finding stories that embody relationships, both familial and romantic ones, while continuing to center the importance of the “self” in a story like this. But Lizzie did just that. I especially enjoyed the depiction of family and relationships, and how often tight-knit families (Nigerian in this story, but relatable for people from all different cultures) can sometimes be too involved in your life. Yinka is a 31-year-old woman who is unmarried, unemployed, and in her mind, unwanted. Her mother and all of her Aunties are constantly praying for her to find a huzband. However, Yinka spends majority of the story trying to convince her family she’s perfectly okay being single.
Through failed dates, changes in her appearance, and several interventions, Yinka learns (at times, learns the hard way) how to love all of the things that make her uniquely her. In the end with a little bit of help from her friends, God, and her therapist, she finds her way back to herself and it’s a beautiful and exciting journey to watch.
This a great book to pick up if you’re looking for a dramatic, contemporary novel that is both fun and extremely lively. I really enjoyed getting to see Yinka’s relationships with each person in her life and how difficult it can be to have a big family that knows no boundaries. The only downfall for me personally, was the ending felt a bit rushed. There was definitely a dramatic fall-out that I think was too quickly resolved and I would’ve also loved to have seen the love interest (which is super by the way haha) and Yinka’s relationship in the future and how it played out. Otherwise, such a great novel and one I would certainly recommend.
November 6, 2024
2,5 stars rounded up to 3 because the narrator Ronke Adékoluejo helped me through the bits I found really bad and the ending almost makes up for how frustrating the rest of the book was.
I wanted to like this book and its MC so much and was so disappointed when I couldn't.
But I guess I've become too old to find anything funny in a plot where a female MC is forced into the most cringey situations. Also the constant lying to save some imaginary face is one of the tropes I hate the most. I cannot help disliking characters who at 30 behave like they were 13 and are nasty to their friends. Just nope. The Nigerian background and some of the secondary characters (Nana, Donovan) made it better, but they were not pronounced enough to save the book completely.
I liked Bridget Jones-stuff in its heyday, but not for some time now.
Bottom line: this book is not for me.
I wanted to like this book and its MC so much and was so disappointed when I couldn't.
But I guess I've become too old to find anything funny in a plot where a female MC is forced into the most cringey situations. Also the constant lying to save some imaginary face is one of the tropes I hate the most. I cannot help disliking characters who at 30 behave like they were 13 and are nasty to their friends. Just nope. The Nigerian background and some of the secondary characters (Nana, Donovan) made it better, but they were not pronounced enough to save the book completely.
I liked Bridget Jones-stuff in its heyday, but not for some time now.
Bottom line: this book is not for me.
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