Wahala

About “Wahala”

A 2022 novel by Nikki May follows three Anglo-Nigerian friends—Ronke, Boo, and Simi—whose lives are upended by the arrival of Isobel, a charismatic and glamorous woman. Ronke seeks a perfect life with her boyfriend Kayode, but her friends doubt his reliability. Boo has a happy marriage and child but feels unfulfilled and guilty. Simi appears to have it all but struggles with impostor syndrome and is not ready to have a baby. Isobel initially brings positive changes, helping Simi get a job in Hong Kong and joining Boo for jogging. However, her presence gradually causes tension within the group, leading to the breakdown of their close friendship.