The 30th Candle Paperback – October 2, 2023

The book is brilliantly written with exciting twists and turns.I thought I would struggle to keep track of the characters but the author kept them so real.

At first I thought I'd chosen a bland and predictable coming of age tale. But reading further I found the development of the characters increasingly intriguing. I appears that Angela is a thriller and suspense writer more than she is a romantic one. From the latter parts of the book it only makes sense that one reads Red Ink next.

I was drawn to this book because age 30 was a huge turning point in my life, just like it is for these 4 women, who are best friends living in South Africa (Nowalzi, Sade, Linda, and Dikeledi). Apparently it was originally released in 2009 but was rereleased in October with editorial revisions. I was given early access thanks to NetGalley. This book is full of drama and secrets between all of the characters, who are messy and flawed in their own ways. However, over the course of the book they all grow in different ways as they pursue their true happiness. I enjoyed how the author tied South African language and culture into this book. However, it did take quite a bit of time for me to get into it. The plot jumped around some and was hard to follow at times. I think this story would make a good movie.

Good South African read! So relevant & modern, could relate to the characters. Enjoyed every bit of it. I will certainly read more titles by Angela Makholwa.

I loved reading this book. It is filled with rich characters. Worth the read! Angela is a talented and amazing writer.

Loved this book. This author is quirky and quick witted. After reading this book, read her next one, black widows society, which was equally fun and fast moving.