I loved the author’s first book, My Sister, the Serial Killer. It was completely original and hilarious. The dynamics between the sisters was the best part. Seven years later, the author’s sophomore novel, Cursed Daughters, was released. I couldn’t wait to read it. Unfortunately, I was disappointed.
While this book is also set in Nigeria and is original in perspective, it is not funny at all. In fact it is rather melancholy, even depressing. The relationship between two cousins who grew up together are abruptly terminated by the suicide of the elder one. The curse on the family, that no female will be able to keep their man at home, isn’t helping the atmosphere either. There is also the older cousin’s daughter born the same day as the suicide who the entire family believes is the dead cousin incarnate. And a great aunty who has dementia. There are even more examples but you get the idea. Eventually, it turns around. Hopefully, you haven’t walked into the sea like the dead cousin by then.
If you like moody literary fiction, you will probably enjoy Cursed Daughters. For this mystery reader, it just wasn’t for me. I would have enjoyed rereading the author’s first book much more. 3 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and One More Chapter for providing me with an advanced review copy.