What I'm Reading!
Bolu Babalola’s Love in Color is a captivating collection of reimagined love stories that bring mythical, legendary, and modern women to life in ways that are both empowering and relatable. Babalola revives ancient myths and folklore, weaving them into vibrant tales of romance where the heroines are the stars—bold, intelligent, and deeply loving. From African mythology to tales inspired by Greek legends, Babalola shines a light on the power of women in relationships, making each story a unique celebration of strength and tenderness.
One of the standout stories in the collection is Affem, where a Nigerian heroine navigates the delicate balance between duty and desire. Affem’s journey is romance and self-discovery, as she learns to embrace her desires and strength on her own terms. Like many of the women in Love in Color, Affem is a perfect example of Babalola's depiction of "alpha-women"—fiercely independent yet capable of deep, passionate love. The combination of vulnerability and resilience in characters like Affem sets the tone for the entire collection, making it a refreshing take on traditional love stories.
What makes Love in Color especially engaging is how it redefines love. It’s not just about romantic connection; it’s about self-worth, healing, equal partnership with the other half and empowerment. Each woman in these stories steps into her full power, whether that’s through reclaiming her identity, breaking free from societal expectations, or simply choosing to love freely and authentically. Babalola writes with such care and respect for these characters, making them not only relatable but deeply inspiring.
As an author myself, with my upcoming book Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire, I found a particular resonance with the diversity of love stories in Love in Color. Much like Babalola, I explore the many faces of love, whether it’s rekindled connections, unspoken desires, or the complexity of human relationships. The variety of stories in Scarlet Yearnings shares a thematic kinship with Love in Color, as both collections celebrate the richness and depth of love in all its forms. If you were captivated by the bold, intelligent women in Babalola’s stories, I believe Scarlet Yearnings will offer you a similar exploration of love that is tender, transformative, and deeply personal.
Babalola's prose is lush, filled with rich descriptions that breathe life into each setting and character. Her playful tone and sharp wit add levity, even in the heavier moments, creating a collection that is not only heartfelt but also joyous. She expertly balances cultural reverence with modern-day relatability, making her stories accessible to readers from all walks of life.
Verdict: Love in Color is a must-read for anyone who loves powerful, alpha-women characters who are intelligent, passionate, and capable of loving deeply. Bolu Babalola has crafted a powerful collection that redefines love and myth for the modern reader. If you enjoyed these stories, don’t miss Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire, where love is equally diverse and mighty. Both collections celebrate the beauty and complexity of human connections, making them essential reads for romance lovers.
