Lesley Lokko – Soul Sisters

‘Soul Sisters’ by Lesley Lokko is the first book I have read by this author, so I had no idea what to expect. I only knew I loved the cover and the synopsis sounded like the type of story I really enjoy. All I can say is, for me, it was a stunning read.

The book begins with a prologue that is set in 1921 and Matabebeland, Southern Rhodesia. Then it continues through the years and we are in Scotland with Kemi and Jen, two women who have been brought up like siblings since early childhood when Kemi came over from South Africa. Their families have shared histories over the generations. Kemi was educated in Britain alongside Jen and the girls could not be closer; nor could they be more different in the paths they take in life. But the ties that bind them are strong and complicated, and a dark family secret exists in their joint history.

They both meet Solam while he is on a London trip, he is from South Africa’s black political elite. He sweeps them both of their feet. Kemi makes a decision partially based on her interest in Solam and also on a journey of self-discovery, Kemi decides to go back to her birth country. She is 31 and this will be her first time returning. Jen decides to go with her to escape her dad’s overbearing presence.

In Johannesburg, it becomes clear that Solam is looking for the perfect wife to facilitate his soaring political ambitions. But who will he choose? All the while, the real story behind the two families’ connection threatens to reveal itself – with devastating consequences.

Lesley Lokko has created Kemi and Jen perfectly, they are two very different people but their relationship was so genuine it felt real, they are so developed and the warmth radiating from their bond was so vivid I felt like I could almost feel the heat.

The setting of South Africa was described so clearly that it made me want to actually be there with Kemi and Jen. This is another book in which I found myself being educated, this time about South Africa’s history and the changes that the country has been through. I love being entertained by a story of epic proportions while learning at the same time.

A powerful book that sweeps through the generations of families that are bound together while taking us to South Africa, London and Edinburgh and back again. Giving us a story of love, loyalty, power, race and ultimately secrets that makes for a poignant tale.

I highly recommend ‘Soul Sisters’ to anyone who wants a historical fiction book that is such a satisfying and great read.

Thanks to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours and Lesley Lokko for the beautiful copy of the book.