The Parlour Wife: The most poignant historical fiction book you’ll read this year

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Kehinde must put everything on the line to find herself during a time of war.

Lagos, 1939

With the announcement of World War Two and a change that sends shockwaves through her family, Kehinde is forced to put aside her dreams of writing and become the third wife of Mr Ogunjobi.

Kehinde makes her peace by selling snacks at a small market. When she gets the chance to assist the leader of the Lagos Market Women's Association, fighting for the rights the British are trying to take away, Kehinde finally feels useful again.

But if her husband finds out he’ll abandon her.

Can Kehinde find the courage to fight for herself and the other women of Lagos? Or will she remain a caged bird, a parlour wife, forever.

A poignant story of a young Nigerian woman, living with the consequences of a war her country didn’t choose.

Praise for The Parlour Wife:

'1940's Nigeria as you've rarely seen it … Kehinde's journey to discovering her own voice, and ultimately her own autonomy, will resonate with many. A delightful debut!’

Chioma Okereke, author of Water Baby

'A delightful and evocative journey that starts in the heart of a young woman in Lagos whose destiny is threatened when the clouds of family and societal expectations, thesecond World War and the new wave of change sweeping West Africa make their impact on her life and choices'

Ola Awonubi, author of A Nurse’s Tale

'We all studied WW2, but Nigeria’s role, as a British colony, doesn’t feature in many books. Agbage corrects this in her poignant debut. I rooted for feisty Kehinde from the get-go. It’s not easy to be a feminist when you’re a third wife and destined for the parlour – her courage was wonderfully written'

Nikki May, author of Wahala and This Motherless Land

'Written in a warm, compassionate voice, Foluso Agbaje’s The Parlour Wife is a harmonious marriage of historical events and memorable characters'

Sefi Atta, author of The Bad Immigrant

Review

Praise for The Parlour Wife:

'1940's Nigeria as you've rarely seen it … Kehinde's journey to discovering her own voice, and ultimately her own autonomy, will resonate with many. A delightful debut!’

Chioma Okereke, author of Water Baby

'A delightful and evocative journey that starts in the heart of a young woman in Lagos whose destiny is threatened when the clouds of family and societal expectations, thesecond World War and the new wave of change sweeping West Africa make their impact on her life and choices'

Ola Awonubi, author of A Nurse’s Tale

'We all studied WW2, but Nigeria’s role, as a British colony, doesn’t feature in many books. Agbage corrects this in her poignant debut. I rooted for feisty Kehinde from the get-go. It’s not easy to be a feminist when you’re a third wife and destined for the parlour – her courage was wonderfully written'

Nikki May, author of Wahala and This Motherless Land

'Written in a warm, compassionate voice, Foluso Agbaje’s The Parlour Wife is a harmonious marriage of historical events and memorable characters'

Sefi Atta, author of The Bad Immigrant

Book Description

The most poignant historical fiction book you’ll read this year

Review:

5.0 out of 5

100.00% of customers are satisfied

5.0 out of 5 stars Best book of the year

L. · 8 October 2024

This incredible novel brings alive fictional characters that become kind of part of your life during the time you read the book. Women that are seen as pretty wall-flowers, quiet and always smiling find their force and inner voice despite what others think of them..not very different from our days even though this wonderful book is set in the start of World Word I in Nigeria so you don't just get to enjoy the fiction but also to learn about the history at the time! A must read with fantastic descriptions which would make an amazing movie!! Highly recommend if you love fiction, and history is a plus

5.0 out of 5 stars A powerful, compelling novel.

A. · 25 September 2024

I loved this beautifully written debut novel by Foluso Agbaje. I was captivated by the story of Kehinde, a young woman who had to fight to find herself and follow her dreams in spite of all the curved balls that life and societal norms threw at her. I followed the story avidly, routing for Kehinde all the way and wishing the story could continue even when I got to the end of the book. I'm really hoping there will be a sequel to this compelling novel. Well done Foluso Agbaje!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Life in Lagos during World War 2

A.R. · 12 September 2024

Loved it!!! The descriptions of old Lagos, the life style then, good old Eko!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Totally unique perspective

W. · 3 October 2024

I really enjoyed reading this. I’d never thought about the influence of the World Wars on pre-colonial Nigeria. The author managed to capture and portray immense emotion, depth and truth. I was sorry to finish this book. Hoping for a sequel.

5.0 out of 5 stars Well written book , easy read and difficult to put down

I.S. · 1 October 2024

Preordered a copy on Bolo which I received early September . Finished reading the book in a few days . Such a compelling story , couldn’t put the book down . Easy to read and beautifully written .

5.0 out of 5 stars Historical fiction based in Lagos at the time of WW2

B. · 14 September 2024

Loved the characters! It’s a lovely way to learn about what was happening at the time of WW2 from the perspective of people living in a country not directly involved in the conflict but pulled in through its ties to colonial government abroad!On top of that, lots of nuggets of Nigerian culture in there. This is one for the top shelf

The Parlour Wife: The most poignant historical fiction book you’ll read this year

4.8

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Product origin: United Kingdom

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