Queen Raffy's Space

Àtùpà: The Narrative by Fausat Omolara Ayinla is one of those books that gave me a very different experience because I didn't just read the story — I had the privilege of bringing it to life as the narrator of the audiobook.

What I particularly enjoyed about the story is how it blends fantasy and mythology with very human themes. Àtùpà is faced with difficult trials and choices that force her to question what she's willing to sacrifice for the people she loves and for the destiny placed before her.

And yes, narrating this book was an experience of its own. Getting into the characters, the world, the emotions and the mythology made me appreciate the story from a completely different perspective. There were moments where I wasn't just reading the words on the page, I was living inside the story.

Overall, Àtùpà: The Narrative is a beautiful reminder of the power of African stories and the importance of preserving and telling them in ways that allow new audiences to experience them.

And honestly, I'm just happy I got to be the voice that helped tell this one. You can find the audiobook here - https://www.audiobooks.com/audiobook/atupa-the-narrative/1058711?utm_source=chatgpt.com

No Perfect Love by Adesuwa O'Man Nwokedi is the book that finally introduced me to Adesuwa's writing, and I completely understand the hype now. My friend, Detee, insisted I read it and even got me a copy. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. Adesuwa dey write abeg.

The story explores love, marriage, family, old flames, adultery, obsession, and healing. I found myself really frustrated with how Tobe treated Gina, but it also reminded me that relationships don't usually fall apart overnight. They slowly crack through poor communication and neglect, and I was glad to see how they eventually found their way back.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I finished it in just three days, which is something I haven't done in a long time. It has definitely made me want to read more of Adesuwa's books. Now, if anyone wants to bless me with the Ginika Bridesmaids set, my DMs are open.

For the 50th episode of Queen Raffy's Space, I sat down with Fausat Omolara Ayinla, Nigerian author, storyteller, publisher, and creator of the Storytelling Advantage Framework, to talk about the power of stories and the journey behind writing them.

We explore how she discovered her love for writing, why children's literature and historical fiction have become her signature genres, and how she develops memorable characters that stay with readers long after they've finished her books. Fausat also shares her passion for audiobooks, why authentic voices matter in storytelling, and the creative process behind bringing her stories to life in audio.

Beyond writing, we discuss the realities of being an author—from self-publishing and the challenges of the literary world to the ongoing conversation around book piracy and the growing influence of book influencers. She also shares the vision behind her Storytelling Advantage Framework and how storytelling can become a powerful tool for authors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to communicate with greater impact.

Whether you're an aspiring writer, an avid reader, or simply someone who appreciates the power of a well-told story, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into the craft, business, and impact of storytelling.

Connect with Fausat Omolara Ayinla:

Butterfly Cre8tive (Publishing): https://butterflycre8tive.com

Adventures of Bobo: https://adventuresofbobo.com

The Storytelling Advantage Newsletter (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-storytelling-advantage-7473641491983327232

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kweenlahrah

For this episode of Random Musings, I'm sharing a few thoughts that have been sitting in my head for a while before I took a break from recording. From the irony of scholarship applications asking for affidavits of poverty, to realizing that some people put others down to make themselves feel better, and accepting that you can't control people's perceptions or assumptions about you.

I also talk about why people are so eager to claim credit for the most basic ideas and why that's something I've been thinking about lately.

Listen in, and let me know which musing resonates with you the most.

Wahala by Niki May is a book i went into Wahala by Niki May with no expectations. I was simply drawn to the cover and the title. After reading it, I can confidently say... na truly wahala!

The story is packed with friendship, betrayal, adultery, revenge, power plays, and plenty of drama. One thing that stood out to me was how much of the chaos could have been avoided if people had simply been honest. So many small lies and unspoken truths ended up changing everyone's lives.

Overall, I really enjoyed the book, especially towards the end when the pace picked up. I also hear it's being adapted into a series, and I'm curious to see how it turns out. Wahala has definitely made me want to read more of Niki May's work.

For the 49th episode of Bants With, I spoke with Andrew Ovo Ekpiwhre aka DrewBaba, founder of Drew Marketing Innovations (DMI), a talent management and marketing agency specialising in deal negotiation, brand development, and campaign strategy.

We explore the business side of content creation, what it takes to build successful brand partnerships, and why talent management is much more than just connecting creators with brands.

Andrew shares practical insights from managing lifestyle influencers, negotiating deals, developing talent, and creating campaigns that keep audiences engaged while delivering value for brands. We also discuss what aspiring creators should know about building sustainable careers in today's creator economy.

This is an insightful conversation for creators, marketers, and anyone curious about the work that happens behind the scenes of the influencer industry.

Connect with Andrew:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewbaba/

This year, Reflections – Take A Minute becomes more personal. I’m sharing Qur’anic verses that have carried me — especially in moments when life felt like a test I didn’t study for.

In this reflection, I sit with the reality that being tested is part of the human journey. Fear. Loss. Uncertainty. Waiting. These seasons can make us feel forgotten, but this verse reminds me that tests are not abandonment. They are part of the path. And within them, there is growth, patience, and unseen reward.

Qur’anic Reflection:
Qur’an 2:155

Take a minute today to remember: being tested does not mean being left behind.

For your sadaqah this year, please support the work of The Barakah Lifestyle NG:

Wema BankThe Barakah Lifestyle NG8216316498

Mint Finex BankThe Barakah Lifestyle NG1102217122

This year, Reflections – Take A Minute becomes more personal. I’m sharing Qur’anic verses that have carried me — especially in moments when life felt like a test I didn’t study for.

In this reflection, I sit with the reality that being tested is part of the human journey. Fear. Loss. Uncertainty. Waiting. These seasons can make us feel forgotten, but this verse reminds me that tests are not abandonment. They are part of the path. And within them, there is growth, patience, and unseen reward.

Qur’anic Reflection:
Qur’an 2:155

Take a minute today to remember: being tested does not mean being left behind.

For your sadaqah this year, please support the work of The Barakah Lifestyle NG:

Wema Bank
The Barakah Lifestyle NG8216316498

Mint Finex BankThe Barakah Lifestyle NG1102217122

This year, Reflections – Take A Minute becomes more personal. I’m sharing Qur’anic verses that have carried me — especially in seasons where I needed reassurance more than answers.

In this reflection, I sit with the promise that difficulty is never the end of the story. When things feel heavy, when clarity feels far away, this verse reminds me that ease is not separate from hardship; it exists alongside it. It may not look how we expect, and it may not arrive when we demand, but it comes.

Qur’anic Reflection:
Qur’an 94:5–6

Take a minute today to hold on a little softer. Ease is part of the promise.

For your sadaqah this year, please support the work of The Barakah Lifestyle NG:

Wema Bank
The Barakah Lifestyle NG8216316498

Mint Finex BankThe Barakah Lifestyle NG1102217122

This year, Reflections – Take A Minute becomes more personal. I’m sharing Qur’anic verses that have carried me — especially in moments when I needed to shift my perspective.

In this reflection, I sit with gratitude. Not the loud kind that only shows up when everything is perfect, but the quiet, steady gratitude that exists even in waiting, even in uncertainty.

This verse reminds me that gratitude is not just a reaction; it is a posture. And in that posture, there is an increase.

Qur’anic Reflection:
Qur’an 14:7

Take a minute today to ask yourself: What am I overlooking that is already a blessing?

For your sadaqah this year, please support the work of The Barakah Lifestyle NG:Sadaqah Details — The Barakah Lifestyle NG

Wema Bank
The Barakah Lifestyle NG8216316498

Mint Finex BankThe Barakah Lifestyle NG1102217122