🌸 Big News! My Young Adult Debut The Girl in the Picture Releases on October 10
Hey everyone!
I’m beyond excited to share that my very first Young Adult novel, and my traditional publishing debut, is finally here! 🎉
My new book, The Girl in the Picture, published by Paperworth Books, will be officially released on October 10th, 2025. Just a few days away! It will be available in bookstores across Nigeria and online worldwide, and you can preorder your copy on Amazon right now.
💛 Early Reader Reactions
The early Goodreads reviews have been so heartwarming, and I couldn’t resist sharing a few:
“Coming from the standard Nigerian home where boyfriends, girlfriends, and sex are rarely discussed, I loved how this book brought a fresh, honest perspective to that gap.” — Rayo Reads
“It’s been a while since I picked up a Nigerian YA romance, and this reminded me of how refreshing they can be. A beautiful publishing debut, and massive congratulations to Amaka Azie!” — Lola
Hearing readers connect with this story has been so special, especially because it explores themes I care deeply about: identity, love, and finding your voice in a world that often tries to silence it.
📖 About The Girl in the Picture
Seventeen-year-old Fechi Ajala has always been bright and full of promise, but moving from Enugu, Nigeria, to the quiet town of Birkenhead, England turns her world upside down.
Starting over at Beacon High feels like stepping into a new universe filled with culture shock, loneliness, and the constant pressure to fit in.
Then there’s Max — charming, smart, and seemingly perfect — until his mysterious cousin Darren warns her to stay away, insisting Max is trouble. Confused yet intrigued, Fechi finds herself drawn to Darren instead, uncovering layers of emotion she never expected.
Just when she begins to find her footing, one reckless, seemingly innocent text threatens to destroy everything — her reputation, scholarship dreams, and sense of belonging.
With her future hanging by a thread, Fechi must decide whether to let her mistakes define her or to fight back with everything she’s got.
✨ The Girl in the Picture is a heartfelt Nigerian YA romance filled with drama, heartbreak, friendship, and resilience. It’s about discovering who you are — and daring to speak your truth, even when the world is shouting over you.
📚 Why You’ll Love This Book
- Perfect for fans of Nigerian YA fiction and coming-of-age love stories
- Explores culture, identity, and self-discovery in a relatable, heartfelt way
- A story that bridges Nigeria and the UK, with authentic teen voices and universal emotions
- Written by Amaka Azie, author of beloved Nigerian romance novels like The Senator’s Daughter and The Love Child
💬 My thoughts about this book
Writing this book has been one of the most emotional journeys of my career. Fechi’s story grew out of my reflections on what it means to grow up between cultures, to find yourself in a new place, learning how to belong without losing who you are.
I hope The Girl in the Picture inspires readers, especially young people, to embrace their truth and keep fighting for their dreams, no matter the setbacks.
🛒 Preorder Now
👉 Preorder The Girl in the Picture on https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Picture-Amaka-Azie-ebook/dp/B0FGQ6HNFKzon
📅 Release Date: October 10, 2025
📍 Publisher: Paperworth Books
💛 Genre: Young Adult | Nigerian Romance | Coming-of-Age
🌷 Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for being part of this incredible journey. Your support means everything to me — truly. I can’t wait for you to meet Fechi, Max, and Darren, and to fall in love with their story just like I did.
Here’s to new beginnings, brave hearts, and stories that make us feel seen. 💛
With love,
Amaka Azie
