The Sex Lives of African Women

By: Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah

Narrated by: Maria Gbeleyi, Rachel Adedeji, Sara Powell

Finalist for the 2023 AUDIE AWARDS® for Non-Fiction

A DOROTHY KOOMSON BOOK OF THE YEAR

AN ECONOMIST BOOK OF THE YEAR

Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah spent decades talking openly and intimately to African women around the world about sex. In this book, she brings together their extraordinary stories, whilst also chronicling her own journey towards sexual freedom.

From finding queer community in Egypt to living a polyamorous life in Senegal to understanding the intersectionality of religion and pleasure in Cameroon, their necessary narratives are individual and illuminating. This stunning collection provides crucial insight into our quest for sexual power and offers all women inspirational examples to live a truly liberated life.

©2021 Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah (P)2021 Hachette Audio UK

Critic reviews

"Extraordinarily dynamic.... A book like none you will have read before.... Documents and legitimises the desires and sexuality of African women, beyond every conceivable stereotype.... With sensitivity, this book has facilitated astonishing breaking of silences." (The Guardian)

"A beautiful, delicate and sometimes brutal exploration of African Womanhood and sexuality, honest and moving. A vital treasure." (Bolu Babalola, author of Love in Colour)

"Such a beautiful read, like chatting to a friend over a cuppa. This is the intimate, insightful read that I didn't know I needed. Just brilliant." (Dorothy Koomson, author)

A deep dive into the lives of strong and beautiful women

This book was a deep dive into the lives of several women who opened themselves up in vulnerable situations at many times and spoke truth, which showed strength.

Loved it.

I loved the honesty of this book told through all the women's stories and vulnerability

Couldn’t recommend this enough

I found myself telling everyone to read this so we can discuss it! It’s so well written, perfect for a book club because every story makes you pause and think deeply about their life and decisions. I loved the last story especially that tied this all together so well. Grateful to every woman that shared their lives with us and wishing you all happiness ❤️

It is insightful

I had initially avoided delving into this book because I imagined I was walking into trauma. I picked it up after a friend stated that that was not the basis of the book. It's majorly a narration of the featured womens journey into their sexuality. It is insightful, some stories warm despite the circumstances of the narrator's situation...others heartbreaking. Overally I am glad to have given it a chance

Outstanding!!! 👌🏼

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Author did her research well and I am happy that it covered different perspectives and women from various countries. May it bring healing and freedom to those who need it.