Americanah

People Person

The real question: would you have covered for Dimple? This week, we're unpacking the siblings' decision, the predicament they find themselves in, and the audacity of Cyril.

Happy Land

In this episode, we discuss Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez—a multigenerational historical fiction rooted in land, legacy, family secrets, and the history behind the Kingdom of the Happy Land.

The Lagos Wife, Part 2: An Interview with Vanessa Walters

This week on Shelf Sabotage, we’re joined by Vanessa Walters, author of Lagos Wife, to talk about the inspiration behind the book, the real-life experiences that shaped the story, and the layers beneath the drama. 👀✨ If you’ve read Lagos Wife (or are looking for your next read), this conversation is one you don’t want to miss!

The Lagos Wife, Part 1

Content warning: This episode includes discussion of domestic violence and sexual assault. Listener discretion is advised. This week's episode unpacks The Lagos Wife: a mystery featuring complex history, layered characters, and an unexpected twist. We discuss the back-and-forth timeline featuring two main perspectives, and how much of the main character comes through other people’s voices. Check out Part 1, then join us next episode for our conversation with Vanessa Walters.

With Love From Harlem

On this episode of Shelf Sabotage™, we get into With Love from Harlem by ReShonda Tate, and… whew! Join us as we follow the life of Hazel Scott, a Black woman and musical prodigy navigating fame, love, and power in 1940s Harlem, alongside Adam Clayton Powell Jr., whose ambition and ego complicate it all. From the outside, Hazel’s life looks glamorous but up close “it’s complicated,” as life and love can sometimes be. QTNA: Did you already know Hazel Scott? And how much did you really know about Adam? #ShelfSabotage #HazelScott #AdamClaytonPowellJr #ReShondaTate