A young Samoan author launched the first book of her three part series at the Samoa Stationery and Books in Apia on Friday.

Eighteen-year-old Jadyn Patrilita Petimara Ualesi launched “Fear to Love” in Samoa on the first leg of her book tour.

Before launching in New Zealand and Australia, Jadyn chose to return to her roots and give back to her birthplace with a romantic novel that will entice readers of all ages.

“Fear to Love” focuses on the unique love story of Zekiah and Jaron which Jadyn said was inspired by her own love story. It gives readers a reason to love and the story of how true love can come in the way of the respect and relationship one has with one’s own family. The young author said it has taken her three months to write “Fear to Love”.

 She started in December 2014 and some parts are based on her own love life which she wouldn’t be able to share openly if it weren’t for her novel.

“It is the only way I can express my true feelings. It’s like writing it in a diary, but the book is more like a sharing diary for other people to know about  part of your life that you want to share, but you can’t say it or think it out loud.” With her second book, “Fear to Lose” already completed, Jadyn is now working on book three.

She first began writing at the age of 13 and had already written a novel she is not yet ready to publish, called “Broken Tears” as she says it is much more personal.

She has also written poetry and has submitted some of her work to the Samoa Observer Poetry Page where she first began to gain recognition for her work. With the support of her family, especially her parents, Tauiliili Eti and Sili’a Ualesi, Jadyn has successfully been able to complete and publish her first book

In doing so she said she gives thanks to God for his guidance and also acknowledges S.S.A.B. for supporting her and hosting her book signing. S.S.A.B. Education Manager, Bronwyn Hunt-Keil said that S.S.A.B. is a great believer in promoting literacy as well as the work of local writers. By supporting Jadyn, S.S.A.B. encourages young writers to continue with their passion, she said.

Jadyn herself advises the youth of Samoa who are interested in pursuing a career in writing to “never give up on your dreams and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

“Fear to Love” is on sale at the S.S.A.B. stores retailing for a special price of $40 as part of the book launch.