While we all hope (and plan) for our marriages to work out for the best, none of us truly have control over how these connections will unfold over time. The following novels are all works of fiction set in Africa. In each one, we become intimately acquainted with the specific cultural pressures these women face as they navigate what ultimately become difficult marriages.
His Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie
This book opens on a hilarious note—a wedding with a cake, a dress, in-laws… but no groom! Set in Ghana, the story follows Afi’s Cinderella-like beginning when she marries a man far wealthier than she ever imagined. The drama ensues when readers realize Afi was sent to lure Elikem (“EJ”) away from “that other woman” and back into the loving embrace (or control) of his powerful, demanding mother. Over the course of the novel, we follow Afi as she pursues her career dreams, becomes a mother, and gains the confidence to ask for what she truly wants from her marriage. The book also includes details of the Ghanaian “knocking” ceremony, a formal request for marriage made by the groom’s family.
Under the Udala Trees by Chinelo Okparanta
Beginning in the early days of the Biafran war, Ijeoma comes of age during one of the most perilous times in Nigeria’s history. Her mother sends her away for safety, and there she falls in love with a girl from a different ethnic background. Ijeoma’s story reflects the tragedy of enforced heteronormativity as she struggles to maintain a marriage to a man she isn’t attracted to. Without giving too much away, this novel earns its powerful ending—one that closes with a quiet, moving scene of Ijeoma returning to her mother, child in her arms.
The Polygamist by Sue Nyathi
Sue Nyathi’s debut novel follows Jonasi and his four wives. Narrated in the second person and told through the voices of these four women, the book reads more like a juicy catch-up with four very different friends (who all happen to be married to the same man!). Joyce is the sophisticated wife; Matipa, the educated and ambitious one; Essie, the rural wife; and Lindani, who’s working overtime to be upgraded from girlfriend to wife. Nyathi is a master at writing the inner lives of contemporary African women. This novel is reminiscent of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, with its brand-dropping prose and four women with distinct styles to match.
Happy Reading! Until Next Time,
Ellie
If you enjoyed this post, read this next: In Review: The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Ellie The Bride 
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