"Nonyerem wields language like a finely honed blade, with metaphors that cut to the bone. Even mundane scenes crackle with a cinematic vibrancy. . . the weightier themes are balanced with an achingly tender love story between the protagonists that persists like a flickering flame. Brace yourself for this one, it's worth every minute." Samuel Monye award-winning author of Give Us Each Day.

"Sometimes you read a piece of art that makes your heart flutter. Nonyerem has a unique and strong voice. . . that touches the heart of your heart. " Amirah Al Wassif, author of For Those Who Don't Know Chocolate & How to Bury a Curious Girl.

"An hour's journey home becomes a seven-day nightmare."

In 1999, Kaduna City was thrown into pandemonium — ethnic hate and bigotry had been stirred on its streets, followed by a gruesome bloodbath. In the wake of this, tactical and reclusive Aniekan, and strong-willed Aisha, become expendables, caught in the crossfire. Thrust into a sour battle for survival, they must pave their paths home, by working together — or being at odds. Yet, in every moment spent in each other's company, a thrilling love story emerges as raised walls slip gradually.

24 years later, forgotten histories seem to be repeating itself— again. Just six days before the new leadership of Nigeria is chosen, everything is like 1999 in motion. Only this time, as a family their battles were against rotten policies and corruption; crisis upon crisis.

A rousing and compelling debut novel about surviving daily turmoil and the scars it carve into the mind and the body. It's a story about hate, darkness, and still, one of finding love and light through it all.

"This novel triggers every fibre of imagination in me. The storyline is beautifully scripted with twists and turns that keep you longing for the next scene, event and resolution. . . a WORK of ART." Editor.