My Sister, the Serial Killer
by Oyinkan Braithwaite
226 pages, Hardcover
Publisher: Doubleday (on November 20, 2018)
Release Date: July 17, 2018
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Book Summary
When Korede’s dinner is interrupted one night by a distress call from her sister, Ayoola, she knows what’s expected of her: bleach, rubber gloves, nerves of steel and a strong stomach. This’ll be the third boyfriend Ayoola’s dispatched in, quote, self-defence and the third mess that her lethal little sibling has left Korede to clear away. She should probably go to the police for the good of the menfolk of Nigeria, but she loves her sister and, as they say, family always comes first. Until, that is, Ayoola starts dating the doctor where Korede works as a nurse. Korede’s long been in love with him, and isn’t prepared to see him wind up with a knife in his back: but to save one would mean sacrificing the other…
My Sister, the Serial Killer is a blackly comic novel about how blood is thicker – and more difficult to get out of the carpet – than water…
— from Goodreads
Book Review
“My Sister, the Serial Killer” by Oyinkan Braithwaite is a darkly humorous and tightly woven debut novel that subverts the traditional crime thriller genre. With its unique premise, compelling characters, and satirical exploration of sisterhood, this book delivers an engaging and thought-provoking reading experience.
The story revolves around Korede, a nurse living in Lagos, Nigeria, who finds herself constantly cleaning up after her sister Ayoola. Ayoola has a disturbing habit of killing her boyfriends and relying on Korede to dispose of the evidence. As the body count rises, Korede is torn between her loyalty to her sister and her growing moral unease. When Ayoola sets her sights on the man Korede secretly loves, tensions escalate, leading to a dangerous spiral of lies and deception.
The book’s brevity and pacing are significant strengths. Braithwaite wastes no time in getting to the heart of the story, maintaining a brisk tempo that keeps readers engaged. The concise chapters and the constant sense of tension make it difficult to put the book down, propelling the narrative forward with each twist and turn.
“My Sister, the Serial Killer” is a darkly humorous and thought-provoking debut that defies genre conventions. Oyinkan Braithwaite’s skillful writing, compelling characters, and satirical exploration of sisterhood make for an engaging reading experience. Despite minor flaws in its conclusion and depth, the book’s unique premise and sharp execution make it a standout contribution to contemporary crime fiction. “My Sister, the Serial Killer” is an exciting debut that leaves readers eagerly anticipating Braithwaite’s future works.