Review of ‘Til Death by Busayo Matuluko
When I stumbled upon Busayo Matuluko’s debut novel, ‘Til Death, I was instantly drawn in by the tantalizing premise of a wedding turned mystery, set against the lively backdrop of Lagos, Nigeria. As someone who’s always been captivated by intricate plots and richly developed characters, I was eager to dive into this world where familial bonds intertwine with danger.
‘Til Death follows the story of Lara Oyinlola, an aspiring detective and true-crime enthusiast whose world is flipped upside down when her beloved cousin Dérin’s wedding is threatened by ominous notes and strange occurrences. From the get-go, Matuluko’s storytelling prowess shines through. Lara’s observations guide us as we piece together clues alongside her, and I found myself swept up in her excitement (and occasional frustration) when the plot thickened. The pacing was remarkable; as the tension escalated with each threatening note and suspicious incident, I could barely put the book down, eager to uncover the next twist.
The character development in ‘Til Death is one of its standout features. Lara is relatable and real—intelligent yet flawed, her journey from an amateur sleuth to a credible investigator is both authentic and inspiring. I particularly appreciated how she navigated her own biases as the mystery unfolded. Dérin, while initially perceived as merely a victim, reveals a depth that compels readers to empathize with her struggles against sickle cell disease, adding layers to the narrative. Matuluko skillfully crafts a diverse cast of characters, from the seemingly harmless wedding planner Alika to the antagonistic Joseph, all of whom keep you guessing until the very end.
Matuluko’s writing style is sharp and vividly contemporary, cleverly balancing humor and suspense. Her background as a BookToker shines through, as she adeptly builds tension and blends moments of levity into serious themes, making the reading experience both entertaining and enlightening. The seamless incorporation of Nigerian culture and wedding traditions was a particular highlight for me. I felt immersed in this vibrant world, learning about social dynamics and familial expectations that often echo beyond cultural borders.
While ‘Til Death is a thrilling read, it does have minor areas for improvement. With a large ensemble cast, some characters occasionally fade into the background, and a few subplots seem loosely connected. Additionally, certain plot points rely a bit too heavily on coincidence, which can feel contrived. However, these drawbacks don’t overshadow the overall impact of the story.
Ultimately, what sets ‘Til Death apart is its unique blend of cultural authenticity and universal themes, all while delivering a gripping mystery. This debut not only positions Matuluko as a fresh voice in YA fiction but also offers a profound exploration of identity, acceptance, and the dynamics within an African family.
I highly recommend ‘Til Death to fans of mystery and those curious about Nigerian culture. With its engaging prose and resonant themes, it’s a book that not only entertains but also encourages reflection on deeper issues. Personally, it left me with a greater appreciation for the complexity of love, family expectations, and the beauty of embracing one’s identity, wrapped in a page-turning mystery. If you’re looking for a compelling story that keeps you guessing while also educating, look no further than this delightful debut!