Summary of the novel 'The Stolen Joy' by Hillary Odo

This is a disquieting tale of bliss eclipsed by tragedy, with an unusual plot and existential suspense that make it impossible to put down. Pretty Jessy is desired by Jide as much as Olusola, Jide’s boss. As fate could have it, Jide is murdered. Jessy comes face to face with cruel fate, frustrations and dilemma that make her to question her existence on earth. Events climax for her on several issues with one problem after another as she gropes for a touch and seeks a foothold for life in a desolate world of hers following the death of her much cherished husband.

She suffers in the hands of Oyili, her sister-in-law; is traumatized by the disappearance of her son, Afam, the only world remaining for her; gets married to Olusola, the very man who stole her joy, caused her heart to be pierced and gave her over to countless agonies; and subsequently loses her father. These agonies are as harrowing as they are devastating and she becomes forlorn.

Just as if life has got no more essence for her, cupid’s arrow is again to strike and she gets married again to a medical doctor in whom she finds fulfillment. As her hitherto ugly fate is turning around for good, Oyili, her traducer, is getting her due dosage from nemesis.

For Jessy and her son, Afam, fate is to the rescue. But for Olusola and Oyili, evil deeds have their commensurate reward.

The story is brilliantly captured and immensely satisfying. It is a profound and moving work from a young and promising writer that is set to stir the literary world.

Chidi Onah

Hokkaido University Sapporo, Japan.

…a captivating story that reveals youthful exuberance and its intricacies. Characterized by love, hatred, suspense and retributive justice, the novel reveals how love can undoubtedly blind a man and make him lose all sense of reasoning.

            Despicable crimes are mercilessly committed which leaves Jessy, a principal character in the novel, traumatized and aggrieved.

            The author at long last provides a satisfactory and breathtaking resolution as the architects of the crimes all get their due dosage from nemesis and with the re-appearance of The Stolen Joy.

 ChinemeAgu

Editor-in-chief, Peoples Flash Newspaper