October being Black History Month I couldn’t let the month go by without reviewing something fantastically different, written by a black woman about a black woman who could well be living in modern times.
What’s it about?
Zuleika, black Roman in Londinium AD211. A feisty and daring child bride from an immigrant family made good, she marries into high society. Watched closely by the servants whilst her husband is away, she hatches a plan with best friend Alba to escape her gilded cage and add some spice to her life.
Highs n lows
A novel in verse, this takes you effortlessly through the slums of Londinium to the debauchery of highest Roman society. An idea spawned by Evaristo’s stint as a writer in residence at the Museum of London, she vividly evokes Roman London, keeping the action going in the fewest of words. Cleverly mixing old Latin and modern slang so that everything feels familiar – ever heard of an Armani toga or the band Nu Vox with drummer Puff Daddy Fabius? You’ll find it a funny, sexy and moving quick read.
Is it any good?
5 out of 5 – excellent read. Even if poetry’s not your thing, don’t be put off, you’ll enjoy every word
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