Laughs, Lust, and Life: Sara Haluwa on Writing Sinners

Provocative and hilarious author Sara Haluwa is the creative mind behind Sinners, a novel that blends humor with unflinching explorations of women’s sexuality. While she began her writing journey in 2017 focusing on adult fiction, Sara has also penned a children’s book, showcasing her versatility as a writer.

In this post, Sara discusses the inspiration behind Sinners, what it’s like writing from a woman’s perspective, her approach to humor and sex in storytelling, and what readers can expect from the upcoming Sinners 2.

1. What inspired you to write Sinners?

"I wanted to show that sex isn’t a dirty, shameful, or taboo topic — it’s simply part of our lives. I’ve always wanted to tell sex stories from a woman’s perspective, because the situations women deal with out here are honestly crazy. Sinners was my way of capturing that, laced with humour of course."

2. Which character or story was the most fun or challenging to write?

"Definitely Chantelle. Writing her in first person was so much fun, it allowed me to sit right inside her chaos. The sex scene with the fat governor makes me laugh to this day. I remember I started her story with the line, ‘So it has come to this… death by sex.’ From that single sentence, the whole story grew."

3. What’s one thing you hope readers take away from the book?

"That there is absolutely nothing shameful about sex, especially for women. Our desires and our experiences are valid. And yeah, orgasms are rare out here. Men should address that."

4. What sparked your journey into writing?

"I started writing in 2017. My Fireworks column in The Nairobian allowed me to speak openly about sexual matters, and I loved it. I haven’t stopped writing since."

5. What does a good writing day look like for you?

"A quiet house, good snacks, and me typing away at 3 am until the sun comes up."

6. What are some of your favourite books, authors, or shows?

"My favourite book is usually whatever I’m currently reading. I love African literature. My last read was I Do Not Come to You by Chance by Adaobi Tricia — I absolutely loved it, especially the insight into the Nigerian scamming world. As for TV, my forever comfort show is The Wire. I rewatch it constantly."

7. What’s one fun fact or hobby people might be surprised to learn about you?

"I’m shy, extremely shy. All these things I write about I can’t talk about them in person."

8. Any upcoming projects you’re excited about?

"Yes! Sinners 2 is coming very soon. I go a bit deeper with this one, really fleshing out the characters. Sinners 1 was more about chasing orgasms, but this one I try to go into complex dynamics in marriage. Plenty of sex still though."

The Reading Circle 254 discussion of Sinners was full of laughs, jaw-dropping moments, and enough chaos to make you clutch your chair. If you missed it or just want to experience Chantelle’s wild adventures firsthand grab your copy of Sara Haluwa’s Sinners through the links below. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Get Sinners: TextbookCenter