Andiswa Aba, a talented author and businesswoman from Gqeberha, has made her debut in the literary world with the novel Blinded Love.
This romance thriller explores themes of love, deceit, jealousy, and fatal consequences, set against the stunning backdrop of Gqeberha.
“I’ve travelled the country, and I believe there is no other city that can match ours when it comes to a laid-back, tranquil, friendly and hospitable nature, so it was fitting for me to write about it and share a glimpse of its amenities.
“The objective was to make Gqeberha-based readers, and those who have visited the city, relate to the book,” she said.
Aba’s inspiration for the novel came from everyday life events, and she aims at sharing a glimpse of Gqeberha’s beauty and hospitality with her readers. Her love for the city, where she has lived and worked for most of her life, shines through in her writing.
“Tourism remains the fastest growing economic sector in our country, and our local creative industry is on the rise, bringing job creation opportunities in our region. Collaborations between the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, and other role-players, play a pivotal role in ensuring that our local economy keeps booming.
“This in turn addresses the social and economic ills facing small businesses and emerging artists, thus empowering them to grow,” she said.
As a seasoned tourism professional with 20 years of experience, Aba brings a unique perspective to her storytelling. She balances her creative passion for writing with her successful career, crediting her secured day job for making life more fulfilling.
“I started writing my book in 2016, and the dreaded writer’s block hit me and I stopped writing. I then resumed writing in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown, and since then I never stopped,” said Aba of her writing journey. “Creative writing takes time and effort. It involves planning, many drafts, revising, and editing the manuscript.”
Through Blinded Love Aba hopes readers will discover the importance of family, friends, and relationships. She emphasised that vulnerable decisions made in a fragile frame of mind can lead to devastating consequences.
Aba’s experience as a mother and businesswoman influences her writing and perspective on relationships. She credited her supportive family and friends for making her personal and professional transition smoother.
“Motherhood remains my greatest accomplishment, and the most fulfilling role. I wouldn’t trade it for the world. My son is the motivating force behind pursuing my dreams,” the proud mother said.
The author is already working on her next book, Blind Trust, part of the trilogy, and plans to publish two children’s storybooks later this year.
Aba advises aspiring writers from Gqeberha to pursue their dreams, emphasising that age is just a number in the world of literature.
She plans to use her platform to empower youth from disadvantaged communities, providing access to reading materials and opening doors to new possibilities.
To purchase the R320 book, readers can contact Aba at 083 411 0754.
