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By Damiete Braide
The launch of A Cord of 3 Strands, the fourth book by writer and medical doctor, Dr. Callima Inino, was as much a celebration of literature as it was a testament to faith, friendship and the enduring strength of marriage.
Friends, family members, book enthusiasts and members of the literary community gathered recently in Lagos to honour the author, whose growing body of work continues to inspire readers across genres.
In his address of welcome, Callima Inino the author’s husband set the tone for the event with warmth and gratitude. Describing it as an honour to support his wife and friend, he reminded the audience that A Cord of 3 Strands was her fourth published work. He thanked friends, family and lovers of books for choosing to be present, noting that their attendance was not out of obligation but a deliberate decision to celebrate the author and her craft.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the book, Dr. Inino described the story as one that speaks directly to married couples, a theme that had always been close to her heart. Drawing from her experience as a marriage counsellor, she noted that listening to couples before and after marriage often revealed a stark contrast between appearances and reality.
“Many people present a good picture on the outside,” she said, “but when you listen closely, you discover that things are not always good on the inside.” These observations, she explained, compelled her to tell a story that reflects those hidden struggles and the possibility of healing. While the book is centred on marriage, she emphasised that it is not written exclusively for married people. Singles, she believed, would also find valuable lessons on its pages.
Dr. Inino reflected on the broader sources of her inspiration, acknowledging that, while God was inspiring at all times, everyday life also provided powerful material. The things she observes within her community, she said, often formed the foundation for her stories. Writing A Cord of 3 Strands was not without challenges, though. Balancing her roles as a medical doctor, mother and author meant that time was her greatest constraint. Unlike writers who enjoy the luxury of extended, uninterrupted writing periods, she had to work around demanding professional and personal commitments.
As a result, the book took three years to complete. Yet, she described the writing process as stabilising and deeply personal. Writing allowed her mind to momentarily step away from the pressures of daily life and focus fully on the story she was telling.
While each of her books holds its own uniqueness, Dr. Inino noted that A Cord of 3 Strands stands apart, because it focuses intimately on the life of a married couple. Unlike her earlier works, which explored various characters and scenarios, this book delves deeply into the dynamics of marriage. The title itself is drawn from the biblical passage, “A cord of three strands is not easily broken,” representing the husband, the wife and God. She explained that while individuals and their partners might be strong on their own, it was the inclusion of God that created an unbreakable bond.
Offering a review of the book, Jeremiah Adesina, founder of African Christian Fiction Readers and Writers, described A Cord of 3 Strands as intricate and deeply engaging. She praised the author’s ability to communicate the emotional realities within a marriage, including the influence of family dynamics. She highlighted the portrayal of a single mother raising her son, and how the grown man later navigates relationships with both his mother and his wife. According to her, the book takes readers on a journey through challenges, growth and healing, guided by marriage counselling, wisdom and faith. She encouraged readers to see how small cracks in marriage can either weaken or strengthen a relationship, urging couples to nurture love and trust.
Adding his voice, Pastor Nwafu David commended the author and her husband as a couple who not only wrote about principles but lived them. He described the book as a practical marriage manual, noting that its compelling language keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The master of ceremony concluded by celebrating Dr. Inino’s courage and consistency as an author. He listed her previous works; A Miracle This Christmas, Shadow of His Wings, The Third Day, and now A Cord of 3 Strands. He expressed confidence that, as she continued to write, the world will continue to read and be transformed by her stories.
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