A review by savvylit
Little Rot by Akwaeke Emezi

dark emotional reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Much like Emezi's other books I've read, Little Rot was incredibly riveting and populated by compelling characters. Right from the start, I was deeply invested in each person and their well-being. Emezi's ability to draw thrilling connections between all the disparate characters was an entertaining delight. Lastly, Little Rot is a deliciously queer novel that frequently blurs lines within the spectrum of human sexuality.

That being said, this ended up being my least favorite Emezi novel! There were several characters that I thought were sorely underdeveloped; especially Aima. Aima is introduced to readers immediately... and then barely appears for the rest of the novel. I had been hoping for more nuance when it came to her character because of her unusual viewpoint as a born-again Christian coming to terms with her own sexuality and desire.

Despite all of the above, I am still a firm fan of Emezi and their distinctly beautiful writing and I can't wait to read their next work! Thank you @riverheadbooks for the advanced reader copy of Little Rot in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Find Little Rot in stores and on library shelves starting today!

Content Warnings