They Must Fade Before Dawn follows the progress of Shanpepe ‘Pepe’ Jem, who navigated the murky waters of early loss of parents, child sexual abuse, rape and fatal communal invasions whilst fighting her way to self-actualisation and a meaningful life. With origins in Nigeria. Pepe, the heroine, hated a mediocre existence, and, egged on by her late father, she refused to settle for less in life.
Set in locations around Tiv land and Lagos. The book brings to light the rich culture and peculiarities of the Tiv people of Benue State,Nigeria. Pepe, who had her doubts and questions on matters of faith, also explored love and romance before her roller coaster romance with the eventual love of her life.
With They Must Fade before Dawn, Mimi Olsen-Ikurior does an excellent job of telling a gripping story of love, violence, romance, courage, determination, personal transformation, as well as progress through poverty and adversity.