Picture a Nigerian storyteller who swapped clinical psychology and advertising for the gritty world of crime fiction—meet Femi Kayode! His debut novel, Lightseekers, isn’t just a thriller; it’s a deep dive into Nigeria’s social pulse, blending psychological insight with heart-pounding suspense. Kayode’s unique journey and sharp storytelling have made him a rising star in contemporary African literature.
Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Kayode’s life is a tapestry of diverse experiences that fuel his gripping narratives. From studying clinical psychology to crafting award-winning scripts for stage and screen, his path to becoming a novelist is as thrilling as his stories.
The Making of Femi Kayode
Growing up in the bustling streets of Lagos, Femi Kayode was shaped by Nigeria’s vibrant culture and complex social dynamics. He earned a degree in clinical psychology from the University of Ibadan, initially drawn to understanding human behavior. But the call of storytelling led him to advertising, where he honed his knack for concise, impactful narratives. His creative pursuits didn’t stop there—Kayode wrote for television and stage, earning accolades that showcased his versatility. A pivotal moment came with a scholarship to the University of East Anglia’s prestigious MA in Creative Writing (Crime Fiction), where he crafted Lightseekers, the novel that would launch his literary career.
Femi Kayode’s Unforgettable Stories
Kayode’s debut, Lightseekers (2021), introduces Dr. Philip Taiwo, an investigative psychologist probing the brutal mob killing of three students in a Nigerian university town. Inspired by the real-life Aluu 4 lynching in 2012, the novel explores mob justice, social media’s dark influence, and systemic failures in Nigeria. Kayode’s style is immersive, blending cerebral analysis with noir-ish thrills, and his vivid depiction of Nigeria’s landscapes and societal tensions captivates readers.
The second book in the Philip Taiwo series, Gaslight (2024), sees Taiwo investigating the mysterious disappearance of a megachurch pastor’s wife. This domestic noir evolves into a broader commentary on religion, patriarchy, and power dynamics in Nigeria. Kayode’s ability to weave psychological depth with fast-paced plots makes his work stand out. His stories don’t just entertain—they challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society, justice, and human behavior.
Kayode’s background in psychology and advertising shines through in his tight prose and nuanced characters. He avoids Western crime fiction clichés, focusing instead on the societal conditions that breed crime, making his work a fresh voice in the genre.
Why Femi Kayode Matters
Femi Kayode is redefining African crime fiction by grounding his stories in Nigeria’s unique sociopolitical landscape. His work resonates globally, offering readers a window into the complexities of modern Nigeria while tackling universal themes like justice and identity. Winning the 2019 Little, Brown/UEA Crime Fiction Award for Lightseekers cemented his place as a talent to watch, and his growing series promises more thought-provoking tales. Kayode’s ability to blend entertainment with social commentary makes him a vital voice in contemporary literature.
About Femi Kayode
- Birthplace: Lagos, Nigeria
- Key Works: Lightseekers (2021), Gaslight (2024)
- Awards: 2019 Little, Brown/UEA Crime Fiction Award
- Current Residence: Windhoek, Namibia
Snag Lightseekers and dive into Femi Kayode’s thrilling world of crime fiction! His stories will keep you hooked and leave you pondering long after the last page.