Review: His Treasure by Kiru Taye
Title: His Treasure (Men of Valor)
Author: Taye, Kiru
Length: Approx 50 pages
Genre: Fiction, Historical, Romance
Publisher / Year: Breathless Press / 2011
Source: Amazon.com.
Rating: 4/5
Why I Read It: I’ve been reading all types of Nigerian lit this year, figured I’d take it all the way!
Date Read: 18/12/11
Seriously all, I think I’m blushing just writing this. This short novella was a romance set in pre-colonial Nigeria and phew, it was just a bit steamier than my usual reading and while I swear I’m not a prude in real life, I seem to find it difficult reading steamy scenes in romance novels. There was certainly blushing involved.
This book follows a young man and woman who were married against her wishes a year ago. She swore she would never submit to him willingly, and he refuses to force her to do anything. They are at an impasse and life just may be changing for both of them. The chapters alternate between the two characters and both were well-written and we got an idea of their thoughts and feelings.
I have to say that I loved the way this was written. It could have so easily slipped into the standard rape culture or traditional cultural ideas that so many of our cultures share around the world that the man is right and that his wife must submit, but instead Taye chose the harder road of actually writing out respectable (i.e. no rape involved) scenes and actions to progress the plot. We definitely need more of this type of writing and care for plot and characters.
I’m so impressed with Taye’s writing that despite the fact that I hardly ever (I can’t say never, I did read this!) read romance I may just have to check out her next novella that releases in February. If you enjoy romance or want to try a short one, do give this one a try. (Also, if you buy the ebook online this December Taye will send you a proof of her upcoming novel for free! Check out her post for more details.)
Your review sounds better than the cover (or the title!) suggests. I don’t mind reading romances, although I hardly ever do, but I steadfastly refuse to read books with (half)-naked men on the cover. I’m quite sure that type of book is not for me.
Then again, this sounds interesting!
Yes, it was a really good read Judith, though I have to admit that I was surprised
As I’m sure you’ve noticed, I enjoy a good romance myself – so I’ll definitely have to investigate this book!
Ah you should definitely enjoy it Meghan!
There is a time and place for blush-worthy books and I will say, ‘sign me up!’
Heh I hope you enjoy it Care!
I sometimes need a good steamy book, and from your description and the cover, I can deduce that this might be the perfect choice for me! I am glad that you liked it (despite the blushing).
Happy Holidays over there!
Heh I hope you enjoy it zibilee!
It was definitely steamy, yes! Glad you enjoyed reading, Amy. I reviewed it on Amazon UK and rated it a 4 too. Kiru is a writer to watch (and read). She would be pleased with this review.
Merry Christmas! Have a fantastic time and don’t blush too much!;)
Heh thanks Adura! I am looking forward to the next book as well.
At least some people have shown they could think differently, along s different tangent.
Yes, and it’s really great to see Nana!
Lol! This is awesome.
Glad you like Melissa
I’ve been meaning to explore Taye’s work. Thanks for the review. It sounds quite exciting!
I look forward to your thoughts on it if you give it a try some day Kinna! It definitely was exciting.