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Scared to Life...A passionate dreamer. A tragic loss. Follow one woman's journey around the world in search of the life she risked everything for... |
At nineteen, Jillian Webster knows she can no longer live her life crippled in fear. As a baptized Jehovah’s Witness, she understands leaving the religion will have great consequences. Shunned and labeled as evil, she will also be forbidden to see or speak to her mother, stepfather, and younger siblings ever again.
But Jillian is a dreamer; for years she has craved the sort of life prohibited as a Witness. She longs for higher education, big cities, adventure, and world travel. More than anything, she yearns to be free, to follow that persistent whisper in her heart that begs her to go out into the world and find the life of her dreams, a life she has been told since childhood—doesn’t exist.
After years of heartache, she walks away from the Jehovah's Witnesses, losing her family forever. Forging ahead with nothing but her backpack, Jillian sets out on a global journey across Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia in search of the life she risked everything for.
However, she soon learns the world is not what she imagined and finds herself more lost in her travels than found. Devastated, she continues to follow her heart, leading her to discover everything she’s ever dreamed of in the most unexpected place.
Follow Jillian's deeply vulnerable journey as she struggles to conquer the fears that bind her as well as the questions that plague her at night.
How do you know when to hold on and fight, and when to let go?
How do you find the strength to forgive those who have hurt you the most?
And above all, how do you keep your faith when everything seems hopeless?
Scared to Life is the true story of one woman’s choice to follow her heart above all else, find life after loss,
and ultimately,
discover her freedom by letting go.
Available
NOW
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Social Media Photos and Reviews
Countries represented in photos: United States of America, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, England, Chile, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Czech Republic, Fiji and Sweden.
"You've had me laughing out loud, traveling right along with you and literally in tears. Your writing is beautiful and moving. I heard your voice narrating the entire book to me. It was hard to put down. Every day this week I felt like work was getting in the way, all I wanted to do was read." - Liz F.
"This book sucked me in from page one...The emotional journey that Jillian takes is amazingly beautiful and at times filled with fear and sorrow! Such an inspiring young woman, who took a journey many will never dare to try to conquer! Read this and you will be swept away!" - Kira, Amazon Review
"This book took me on a journey to places I haven't yet visited, and also to a few that I have traveled. Her journeys are truly an inspiration to those who might be afraid to step out of their comfort zone, to actually get a feel for life's zest. She battled the negativity within herself, and came out on top." - Marcia, Amazon Review
"You feel part of Jillian's travels and a very brave young woman as well. Beautifully written, really enjoyed it" - Anita V.
"As one who yearns to travel, I loved this book so much I had trouble putting it down! Wonderfully descriptive narrative that was easy to follow as she traveled from place to place. You share in her joy during good times, and her heartache during sad times. Delightful read that has me hoping she'll travel again, and write about it." - Julie, Amazon Review
"Wow!! Where do I begin?! This book had me roped in instantly. I cried with Jill through her pain, I laughed with her when she found herself in crazy situations and I was angry when things didn't go right for her. I felt it all in this book. So cleverly written, I felt like I got to experience the world right along with her...and what an awesome world it was through Jill's eyes! Becoming familiar with Jill's situation at the beginning of the book made you madly in love with her; what a strong, independent, loving, stubborn, indecisive, beautiful, selfless, silly, brave and creative human being. You will root for her through her journey of living her dream and be so genuinely happy for her. Jill, you are just amazing. I wish you so much love, happiness and fulfillment in life. You deserve it. I'll see you in your next book..." - Lindsey, Amazon Review
"After I fell off the my chair & wiped away my blubbering mess ... I took note of the amazing writing of Jillian Webster . A huge congratulations with putting your story out there. Travel lovers & anyone with a lust for life this is an inspiring read. Thanks Jillian for reminding me of my Australian heritage & how genuine & open armed my peeps are." - Karen V.
"Wanderlust and emotions so raw you can feel them!! I laughed, I cried and I am challenged to be more me. Beautiful, Jillian!" - Foodlady, Amazon Review
"Thank you for your words to reassure me that the little voice inside is there for a reason and to always follow my heart!" - Devon L.
"From the very first page, Jillian Webster's passion and pain will grip you to the extent that you feel as though you are by her side, watching as her life unfolds. She will take you on her journey, a journey of finding herself and her place in the world when she doesn't even know what she is looking for...other than life. This book will show you what bravery means, it will show you what it's like to take life in your stride, and most of all it will show you what it's like to listen to your heart and never give up... I loved it, and I'm so impressed by the quality of her writing for a first time author. I'm already looking forward to her next book, whatever it may be." - Richard, Amazon Review
"I thoroughly enjoyed it! I am going to recommend your book for my book club; I think it would make for an interesting discussion. I wish you much success with both the book and your adventures, wherever they may make take you!" - Melissa V.
"I have cried, and I have laughed my butt off...I think you are an inspiration and I hope many more will think so too!" - Melanie S.
"What an amazing story... I hope this is the first of many publications! Thank you for sharing your adventures and dreams." - Amanda M.
"Wonderful and fun story to read and I often found parts of it to relate with. It also had some good advice as well." - Kaylee, Amazon Review
"Well written! You literally feel like you're beside Jillian in her journey through out life, page by page. Once you start reading this book, you can't put it down." - P. Greene, Amazon Review
"I have never read a book about traveling before, but I found this book very interesting and it was about so much more than just traveling the world. I would definitely recommend it for anyone to read!" - Sarah, Amazon Review
"An incredible journey perfectly articulated. This book is a page turner, unexpected from a written work of this Genre... A roller coaster of emotion and adventure that makes most spy novels seem mundane. Read this book and set yourself free." - Phil, Amazon Review
"I only have a handful of pages to go and can honestly say I loved the whole journey - there were...plenty of surprises and quite a number of holding my breath in fear/anticipation moments, inwardly cringing at times, using all my senses to smell, see, hear and even taste your descriptions of the different countries food and surroundings and a heck of a lot of laughing out loud and wiping my tears away moments." - Christina
"Within the pages of this book, you can follow the internal and external journey of Jillian as she searches for her one true path. Sometimes that path leads her to despair and then to the heights of happiness all the while she is trying to figure out what it is her heart is telling her." - Cheryl, Amazon Review
"I've been reading your book and love it! You're an amazing author. Keep up the great work!" - Skip K.
"I rarely read true life books but was recommend this book by a dear friend. I was so surprised by how I felt wrapped in Jillian's life. I couldn't put this book down. I felt like I was dealing with Jillian's pain and excitement and all her emotions with her as I read. This is not just another travel memoir this is a life evolving and developing and finding its place and worth. I can only hope Jillian writes another book in the near future so I can continue to be a loyal fan." - Scooter14, Amazon Review
"A must read!" - Ashley B.
"This book is so well written. It takes me with her on an amazing her journey. I cannot put it down. Would recommend it to anyone." - Aaron, Amazon Review
"I have read quite a few travel memoirs in my time from Paul Theroux to more modern authors such as Peter Moore, etc, etc, etc. There is a huge market for these books and it seems an endless supply of authors trying to fill it. Jillian Webster’s “Scared to Life” is up there with the best. I really enjoyed this book. It’s well written and easy to read. Being an easy read doesn’t take anything away from the book though, the book just seemed to flow. I would recommend this book to anyone who has travelled or plans to travel and wants some inspiration." - Sydney, Amazon Review
"I totally loved this book! I enjoyed the travels of this amazingly strong and courageous woman, still I can not fathom a mother CHOOSING to close the door to her own flesh and blood. This book is well worth the read." - Mary, Amazon Review
"Almost in one sitting I have enjoyed the journey that has unfolded within this beautifully written book..." - Rebecca M.
"I got a copy on my kindle and finished it last night. I finished it within a week, which for me is a sign that I really enjoyed a book. At first I enjoyed it as a travel memoir, having been to a lot of those places, it was good to see them through someone else’s eyes. But by the time I finished the book, I realised it was much more than that...I could really relate to your feelings...you should be proud of writing the book you have written and I wish you all the best with it." - Andrew R.
"This book is more than just a travel memoir; it is a book about life and love and personal growth. I was instantly pulled in with the personal subject matter. Unfortunately we do not get to choose our upbringing and our struggles in life, and many people can feel trapped. In Scared to Life, Jillian proves that we can overcome those struggles and face our fears. Whether facing our fear means traveling the world, or just simply stepping out of our comfort zones every once in a while, anything is possible. Jillian's book is a beautiful, well-written piece that I plan read over and over again, and to spread the word. Life can be scary at times, but the words of Jillian Webster can INSPIRE all of us on any level." - Laura, Amazon Review
"Jill has an amazing ability to bring you through her journeys as if you're there with her. Emotional, powerful and inspiring." - Rachael, Amazon Review
"This book has made me cry, laugh out loud, and have sleepless nights because I couldn't lay it down! I got excited to pick it up and read another chapter each night, and can not wait to hear more stories from Jillian!!" - Weston, Amazon Review
"I feel as if I traveled this journey by her side. Such vivid descriptions that I saw what she saw, met the people that she met, and felt the things she felt. This amazing trip has provided a wealth of information on culture around the world. Go with Jill as she takes on the world and come back a slightly different person, saying to yourself ("well done Jill, please write again soon!!")" - Sharon, Amazon Review
"I found Scared to Life a very compelling read. It is more than just a delightful and courageous self-discovery journey. Yes, I lived vicariously through the authors travel adventures and laughed, cringed and cried along with her. I could even smell, taste and hear what was going on, as at times her writing engaged all my senses. All in all, I recommend this as a great read, which I honestly found hard to put down and I’m very happy that Jillian has found a fulfilling and happy life here in New Zealand." - Christina, Amazon Review
"This book was such an inspiration in so many ways...living your dreams, and following your heart.... Her struggle with a religion, family, and a very real side with traveling to new places, I felt like I was along side her on her journey while reading this! Highly recommend!" - Mels, Amazon Review
"Fantastic Book - Fantastic Story. Well worth the read!" - Paul, Amazon Review
"I very much enjoyed reading this book. I would like to be able to do this sort of travel one of these days. The author does a great job of telling the reader how she feels when certain things happen, or don't happen as planned. Her experience with Jehovah's Witnesses is very enlightening, I had no idea they were that strict with their followers. Amazing what a group will do to keep the peeps in the flock." - C. Marshall, Amazon Review
"Great journey! Felt as though I was along for the ride. Traveled places I likely will never see...thoroughly enjoyed this read!!" - Brenda, Amazon Review
"An enjoyable and easy writing style compelled me to keep going." Kaydee, Amazon Review
"Scared To Life confronts some big issues - being a woman in the world, being American, poverty, love, hate, fear…… Jill has an eloquent and inspiring way of telling her story and yet allows the reader to fill in the blanks with their own. I am not a world traveler, I was not denied by my own mother and I have never faced many of the other hardships and experiences that Jillian has, and yet I totally feel that I am able to relate to her as a human being through this book. Scared To Life is all at once a fun read, a travel memoir and a triumph over tragedy story. I highly recommend it!" - Shandra, Amazon Review
"I read it in one sitting and re-read it in my head often.I wanted to hold the young girl,made an outcast by her church, yet applaud the strong woman who faced her fears around the world. Simply amazing. Every young woman facing indecision in her life MUST read this." - Peggy, Amazon Review
"This book sucked me in from page one...The emotional journey that Jillian takes is amazingly beautiful and at times filled with fear and sorrow! Such an inspiring young woman, who took a journey many will never dare to try to conquer! Read this and you will be swept away!" - Kira, Amazon Review
"This book took me on a journey to places I haven't yet visited, and also to a few that I have traveled. Her journeys are truly an inspiration to those who might be afraid to step out of their comfort zone, to actually get a feel for life's zest. She battled the negativity within herself, and came out on top." - Marcia, Amazon Review
"You feel part of Jillian's travels and a very brave young woman as well. Beautifully written, really enjoyed it" - Anita V.
"As one who yearns to travel, I loved this book so much I had trouble putting it down! Wonderfully descriptive narrative that was easy to follow as she traveled from place to place. You share in her joy during good times, and her heartache during sad times. Delightful read that has me hoping she'll travel again, and write about it." - Julie, Amazon Review
"Wow!! Where do I begin?! This book had me roped in instantly. I cried with Jill through her pain, I laughed with her when she found herself in crazy situations and I was angry when things didn't go right for her. I felt it all in this book. So cleverly written, I felt like I got to experience the world right along with her...and what an awesome world it was through Jill's eyes! Becoming familiar with Jill's situation at the beginning of the book made you madly in love with her; what a strong, independent, loving, stubborn, indecisive, beautiful, selfless, silly, brave and creative human being. You will root for her through her journey of living her dream and be so genuinely happy for her. Jill, you are just amazing. I wish you so much love, happiness and fulfillment in life. You deserve it. I'll see you in your next book..." - Lindsey, Amazon Review
"After I fell off the my chair & wiped away my blubbering mess ... I took note of the amazing writing of Jillian Webster . A huge congratulations with putting your story out there. Travel lovers & anyone with a lust for life this is an inspiring read. Thanks Jillian for reminding me of my Australian heritage & how genuine & open armed my peeps are." - Karen V.
"Wanderlust and emotions so raw you can feel them!! I laughed, I cried and I am challenged to be more me. Beautiful, Jillian!" - Foodlady, Amazon Review
"Thank you for your words to reassure me that the little voice inside is there for a reason and to always follow my heart!" - Devon L.
"From the very first page, Jillian Webster's passion and pain will grip you to the extent that you feel as though you are by her side, watching as her life unfolds. She will take you on her journey, a journey of finding herself and her place in the world when she doesn't even know what she is looking for...other than life. This book will show you what bravery means, it will show you what it's like to take life in your stride, and most of all it will show you what it's like to listen to your heart and never give up... I loved it, and I'm so impressed by the quality of her writing for a first time author. I'm already looking forward to her next book, whatever it may be." - Richard, Amazon Review
"I thoroughly enjoyed it! I am going to recommend your book for my book club; I think it would make for an interesting discussion. I wish you much success with both the book and your adventures, wherever they may make take you!" - Melissa V.
"I have cried, and I have laughed my butt off...I think you are an inspiration and I hope many more will think so too!" - Melanie S.
"What an amazing story... I hope this is the first of many publications! Thank you for sharing your adventures and dreams." - Amanda M.
"Wonderful and fun story to read and I often found parts of it to relate with. It also had some good advice as well." - Kaylee, Amazon Review
"Well written! You literally feel like you're beside Jillian in her journey through out life, page by page. Once you start reading this book, you can't put it down." - P. Greene, Amazon Review
"I have never read a book about traveling before, but I found this book very interesting and it was about so much more than just traveling the world. I would definitely recommend it for anyone to read!" - Sarah, Amazon Review
"An incredible journey perfectly articulated. This book is a page turner, unexpected from a written work of this Genre... A roller coaster of emotion and adventure that makes most spy novels seem mundane. Read this book and set yourself free." - Phil, Amazon Review
"I only have a handful of pages to go and can honestly say I loved the whole journey - there were...plenty of surprises and quite a number of holding my breath in fear/anticipation moments, inwardly cringing at times, using all my senses to smell, see, hear and even taste your descriptions of the different countries food and surroundings and a heck of a lot of laughing out loud and wiping my tears away moments." - Christina
"Within the pages of this book, you can follow the internal and external journey of Jillian as she searches for her one true path. Sometimes that path leads her to despair and then to the heights of happiness all the while she is trying to figure out what it is her heart is telling her." - Cheryl, Amazon Review
"I've been reading your book and love it! You're an amazing author. Keep up the great work!" - Skip K.
"I rarely read true life books but was recommend this book by a dear friend. I was so surprised by how I felt wrapped in Jillian's life. I couldn't put this book down. I felt like I was dealing with Jillian's pain and excitement and all her emotions with her as I read. This is not just another travel memoir this is a life evolving and developing and finding its place and worth. I can only hope Jillian writes another book in the near future so I can continue to be a loyal fan." - Scooter14, Amazon Review
"A must read!" - Ashley B.
"This book is so well written. It takes me with her on an amazing her journey. I cannot put it down. Would recommend it to anyone." - Aaron, Amazon Review
"I have read quite a few travel memoirs in my time from Paul Theroux to more modern authors such as Peter Moore, etc, etc, etc. There is a huge market for these books and it seems an endless supply of authors trying to fill it. Jillian Webster’s “Scared to Life” is up there with the best. I really enjoyed this book. It’s well written and easy to read. Being an easy read doesn’t take anything away from the book though, the book just seemed to flow. I would recommend this book to anyone who has travelled or plans to travel and wants some inspiration." - Sydney, Amazon Review
"I totally loved this book! I enjoyed the travels of this amazingly strong and courageous woman, still I can not fathom a mother CHOOSING to close the door to her own flesh and blood. This book is well worth the read." - Mary, Amazon Review
"Almost in one sitting I have enjoyed the journey that has unfolded within this beautifully written book..." - Rebecca M.
"I got a copy on my kindle and finished it last night. I finished it within a week, which for me is a sign that I really enjoyed a book. At first I enjoyed it as a travel memoir, having been to a lot of those places, it was good to see them through someone else’s eyes. But by the time I finished the book, I realised it was much more than that...I could really relate to your feelings...you should be proud of writing the book you have written and I wish you all the best with it." - Andrew R.
"This book is more than just a travel memoir; it is a book about life and love and personal growth. I was instantly pulled in with the personal subject matter. Unfortunately we do not get to choose our upbringing and our struggles in life, and many people can feel trapped. In Scared to Life, Jillian proves that we can overcome those struggles and face our fears. Whether facing our fear means traveling the world, or just simply stepping out of our comfort zones every once in a while, anything is possible. Jillian's book is a beautiful, well-written piece that I plan read over and over again, and to spread the word. Life can be scary at times, but the words of Jillian Webster can INSPIRE all of us on any level." - Laura, Amazon Review
"Jill has an amazing ability to bring you through her journeys as if you're there with her. Emotional, powerful and inspiring." - Rachael, Amazon Review
"This book has made me cry, laugh out loud, and have sleepless nights because I couldn't lay it down! I got excited to pick it up and read another chapter each night, and can not wait to hear more stories from Jillian!!" - Weston, Amazon Review
"I feel as if I traveled this journey by her side. Such vivid descriptions that I saw what she saw, met the people that she met, and felt the things she felt. This amazing trip has provided a wealth of information on culture around the world. Go with Jill as she takes on the world and come back a slightly different person, saying to yourself ("well done Jill, please write again soon!!")" - Sharon, Amazon Review
"I found Scared to Life a very compelling read. It is more than just a delightful and courageous self-discovery journey. Yes, I lived vicariously through the authors travel adventures and laughed, cringed and cried along with her. I could even smell, taste and hear what was going on, as at times her writing engaged all my senses. All in all, I recommend this as a great read, which I honestly found hard to put down and I’m very happy that Jillian has found a fulfilling and happy life here in New Zealand." - Christina, Amazon Review
"This book was such an inspiration in so many ways...living your dreams, and following your heart.... Her struggle with a religion, family, and a very real side with traveling to new places, I felt like I was along side her on her journey while reading this! Highly recommend!" - Mels, Amazon Review
"Fantastic Book - Fantastic Story. Well worth the read!" - Paul, Amazon Review
"I very much enjoyed reading this book. I would like to be able to do this sort of travel one of these days. The author does a great job of telling the reader how she feels when certain things happen, or don't happen as planned. Her experience with Jehovah's Witnesses is very enlightening, I had no idea they were that strict with their followers. Amazing what a group will do to keep the peeps in the flock." - C. Marshall, Amazon Review
"Great journey! Felt as though I was along for the ride. Traveled places I likely will never see...thoroughly enjoyed this read!!" - Brenda, Amazon Review
"An enjoyable and easy writing style compelled me to keep going." Kaydee, Amazon Review
"Scared To Life confronts some big issues - being a woman in the world, being American, poverty, love, hate, fear…… Jill has an eloquent and inspiring way of telling her story and yet allows the reader to fill in the blanks with their own. I am not a world traveler, I was not denied by my own mother and I have never faced many of the other hardships and experiences that Jillian has, and yet I totally feel that I am able to relate to her as a human being through this book. Scared To Life is all at once a fun read, a travel memoir and a triumph over tragedy story. I highly recommend it!" - Shandra, Amazon Review
"I read it in one sitting and re-read it in my head often.I wanted to hold the young girl,made an outcast by her church, yet applaud the strong woman who faced her fears around the world. Simply amazing. Every young woman facing indecision in her life MUST read this." - Peggy, Amazon Review
"I was scared to death. It took three years of unending doubt and agony to finally give up my life in Chicago to live the next. It was a long road, but in the end I surrendered ... and left knowing deep down I would never come back. In a way, I was right - just not in the way I could have ever imagined."
- Scared to Life
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*For more information about Jehovah's Witnesses and shunning, please click HERE.
Backpacker Photo credit: Woodif Co. (be.woodif.com)
Backpacker Photo credit: Woodif Co. (be.woodif.com)