A Roar of Resilience: A Review of And So I Roar by Abi Daré
When I stumbled upon And So I Roar on NetGalley, I honestly did a double-take. A sequel to The Girl With The Louding Voice? Imagine my delight! Abi Daré captivated readers with Adunni’s journey of resilience in her debut novel, and I was eager to see what new layers she would uncover for this indomitable character.
This follow-up finds us back in Lagos, where Adunni has escaped the abusive clutches of Big Madam, Florence. Living with the nurturing Miss Tia and her husband, Ken, Adunni embarks on a new chapter, buoyed by a scholarship to school. But the peace is short-lived as men from her village, Ikati, arrive to reclaim her, bringing with them heavy burdens of guilt and complex familial ties. Tia, grappling with her own struggles involving her mother-in-law’s unyielding expectations, quickly becomes a beacon of support. Their partnership blossoms, demonstrating the power of sisterhood amid adversity.
Daré weaves a tapestry rich with challenging themes: baby factories, child brides, and the unapologetic sidelining of women’s dreams. The very thought of these harsh realities ignited a fire within me, reminding me of the ongoing struggles many women face worldwide. While some plot elements felt improbable, the emotional authenticity of the characters kept me invested. The narrative picks up pace quite dramatically upon Adunni’s return to Ikati, and I found myself breathlessly turning pages, desperate to uncover what awaited her—along with the unexpected revelations of Tia’s past.
What truly struck me was Daré’s ability to subtly integrate environmental issues into the storyline. As the characters confront deforestation and the various ecological crises affecting the African continent, the narrative expands beyond personal suffering to highlight a collective struggle. This intersectionality deepens the richness of the novel, making it not just a story of survival, but one of interconnected battles.
Daré’s writing style remains vibrant and evocative, painting vivid images and emotions that resonate deeply. I appreciated how she handled sensitive topics with grace—never shying away from the brutal realities while offering hope through Adunni and Tia’s journeys. A standout moment for me was when Adunni reflects on her voice, embodying both vulnerability and ambition—truly a roar against the silence imposed upon her.
As much as I adored the book, I did find the opening chapters somewhat slow and at times, a touch unrealistic. This minor hiccup, however, quickly faded as the pace picked up and the stakes intensified. The character development, alongside how their stories intertwined, left me feeling profoundly connected to their struggles.
And So I Roar is not just a sequel; it is a powerful acknowledgment of the pain and triumph of women everywhere. I wholeheartedly recommend it to readers who appreciate stories of resilience and struggle, particularly those who enjoyed Daré’s first novel. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new reader, this book promises to be a compelling exploration that invites you to roar alongside its indelible characters.
Thank you, NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton, for the advance copy. I look forward to discussing this book with others and hearing their voices join the chorus of those who dare to roar.