Lyrics & You

MPH BEST YOUNG ADULT FICTION 2024

Nur Edlynn, a 16-year-old plus-sized girl has been in love with her half-Malay half-British best friend, Tengku Aqeel Zayyan, ever since she was eight. She was confident Aqeel had feelings for her too.

She decided to write a love letter, confessing her feelings to Aqeel before he moved to London.

However, he decided to cut her off right after Edlynn sent the letter. Edlynn was dejected and disappointed. She was deeply tormented by Aqeel’s ghosting.

After five years without contact, Aqeel returns, claiming to rekindle their friendship.

“Listen, about the love letter, let's just forget about it. It was in the past. Let's start fresh, shall we? Don't let that love letter ruin our friendship. I’m sorry it took me five years to talk to you about this.” – Aqeel

Things get complicated when Edlynn’s best friend, Aleesha, falls for Aqeel too.

“Let’s make a promise none of us pursue Aqeel.” – Aleesha
“Even if he likes one of us?” – Ed
“If it can ruin our friendship, neither of us should pursue him.” – Aleesha

That’s not all to Edlynn’s story. When it comes to love, friendship, and family, one can never be definite with the ending.

Nuruljannah Usop (Author)

Nuruljannah Usop is a Malaysian author known for her engaging storytelling that often draws from personal experiences. Her passion for writing was nurtured from a young age, influenced by her mother's encouragement to immerse herself in books. This early exposure to literature inspired her to craft narratives that resonate with readers on a personal level.

In 2024, she published her debut novel, Lyrics & You, which tells the story of Nur Edlynn, a plus-sized girl who has been in love with her half-Malay, half-British best friend, Tengku Aqeel Zayyan, since childhood. The novel explores themes of unrequited love, personal growth, and the complexities of friendship. Lyrics & You has received positive reviews for its relatable characters and heartfelt narrative.

Beyond her writing, Nuruljannah actively engages with her audience through social media platforms, where she shares insights into her writing process and connects with readers. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to weave personal experiences into her stories have established her as a notable figure in contemporary Malaysian literature.