The Concubine – by Elechi Amadi

The Concubine is a captivating novel by Nigerian writer Elechi Amadi, first published in 1966. Set in a traditional Igbo village, the story revolves around Ihuoma, a beautiful and dignified widow whose suitors mysteriously face tragic fates. As she falls in love with the brave hunter Ekwueme, their relationship is haunted by an unseen force linked to her past—revealing Ihuoma as a woman connected to the spiritual world.

Blending myth, realism, and tradition, Amadi weaves a powerful narrative about love, fate, supernatural beliefs, and the limitations placed on individuals by culture and destiny. The novel is a landmark in African literature, admired for its rich language, cultural depth, and emotional intensity.