Book Description

Shalewa has always wanted two things: to achieve her big dreams and to pull her family out of poverty. In her early teens, she puts a lid on her emotions with a "No boys, just books" rule. While at the university, fate brings Funso into her life and Shalewa sees that rules can be bent, perhaps even broken. They tie the knot after many years of dating, but what was supposed to be her "happily ever after" begins to fall apart like a poorly stitched seam. With a background of Yoruba traditions, Unbroken offers a compelling exploration of pertinent marital issues within the context of Nigerian society. The novel skillfully addresses the insidious nature of emotional abuse, its hidden scars, and the loneliness of the journey of its victims. Unbroken also mirrors the everyday life of career-driven women and their constant struggles to keep up with societal biases around gender roles. It tells the story of strength, grit, ambition, and the courage to be. "This tale captures the struggles and triumphs of many women which are often ignored. Tosin Enianke Kiyesi builds contemporary [Nigerian] realities into Unbroken and presents a testament to the enduring spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their circumstances, and instead, choose to rewrite their own narratives. Indeed, this is a tale that celebrates tradition, love, and resilience. A reflective debut!" - S. Sueddie Vershima Agema, multiple award-winning author of "Memory and the Call of Waters" (Winner, Association of Nigeria Authors Poetry Prize 2022 and Finalist, Nigeria Prize for Literature 2022) "No more should women and girls feel oppressed or without choices because of societal dictates. This book is both audacious and full of the courage to resist. A true triumph and miracle of a story." - Tope Owolabi, Writer