Love stories and books from the north of Nigeria celebrating the culture and capturing the romantic essence of natives are not mainstream on reading shelves. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best love stories and romantic Hausa novels by Hausa writers for you to enjoy. 

MATAR GWAMNA by Azizat Hamza

Matar Gwamna (The Governor’s Wife) is a political romance that follows the story of Governor Saifuddeen Kachallah, the then deputy governor of Congo State (a fictionalised state in Nigeria), who becomes governor after the sudden death of his predecessor. Asiya Shahidah Faruq, a vibrant young journalist, believes Governor Kachallah is corrupt and lacks empathy for the people. But, in an unexpected twist of fate, her life becomes entangled with the governor’s.

What happens when the governor’s wife digs into Governor Kachallah’s secrets and vows to end his political career? And what happens when revenge collides with love?

The book is available on Wattpad and ArewaBooks or as free audiobooks here.

IDAN AN CIZA by Jamila Umar (aka Janafty)

Idan An Ciza tells the story of two star-crossed characters who grew up in vastly different backgrounds. Fatima Mimi, the daughter of a wealthy army general, falls for  Mansoor Aji,  the son of a maid. Ten years ago, Mimi’s father separated the young lovers and threatened Aji never to contact his daughter again, leaving Mansoor with a grudge that festered for years.

Now a successful football captain, Mansoor Aji returns to ask for Mimi’s hand in marriage. But is it for love or revenge? Find out when you read Idan An Ciza on Wattpad or ArewaBooks.

KU DUBE MU by Batul Mamman

This story revolves around the lives of soldiers’ wives in Nigeria.

Maryam’s life takes a tragic turn when her husband is presumed dead on a mission in Liberia, leaving her to raise their young children alone. As she grapples with grief, family challenges and the sudden blindness inflicted on her by her stepsister, Maryam’s resilience is put to the test.

Ku Dube Mu is available on Wattpad.

MR AND MRS MAIDOKI by Azizat Hamza

After their 10th-anniversary dinner ends in a public scandal, Bilikis and Adam Maidoki are banished by their affluent family to a remote village for six months. Their marriage counsellor believes this time apart will help them rediscover the spark in their love and save their marriage.

But can Adam’s betrayal—cheating on Bilikisu with her best friend—be forgiven? Or will they tie up the fraying ends of their 10-year marriage and find happiness again? Find out when you read Mr and Mrs Madoki on Wattpad or ArewaBooks.

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