Reader House Magazine: An Interview with Ajay Howarth

9 August 2024

readershouse.co.uk

Unveiling the Psychological Layers in Her Writing

Ajay Howarth, an author fascinated by human psychology, crafts stories that explore deep emotions and desires. For her, writing is therapeutic, allowing her to balance personal challenges while navigating the world of self-publishing. She encourages aspiring writers to pursue their passion.

"As an author and avid reader/book reviewer with a fascination for human psychology, I delve into the forbidden desires of the heart and mind through my writing. My goal is to craft stories that leave readers satisfied yet still hungry for more."

In this interview with author Ajay Howarth, we explore how her fascination with psychology has influenced the characters and themes in her books. What do you hope readers take away from these explorations?

"In my writing, I explore the deep emotions and forbidden desires of the heart and mind. My aim is to take readers on a journey by crafting stories that leave them feeling a strong connection with my characters, experiencing their emotions as if they were their own. When my characters cried, I cried. When they laughed, I laughed. I want my readers to feel that too."

In "Love You Always," Bailee’s journey from tragedy and abuse to healing and love is both intense and transformative. What inspired you to write her story, and what message do you hope it conveys to readers who may have experienced similar struggles?

"'Love You Always' was a deeply personal and cathartic journey during 2022. Amidst the chaos of Covid and events in my personal life, I grappled with my mental health. The story had been in my head for years, and the weight of it became almost unbearable. However, an unexplainable force compelled me to write it, despite primarily writing poetry in my early teens. The opening dream came to me first, followed by the title. In just three months, I poured my heart into the first book and started on the second. I sought help for my mental health, and writing became my daily therapy. I owe my life to writing; it anchored me like a lifeline. Much like Bailee, I want my readers to understand that no matter how dire life may seem, they have the strength to overcome their challenges."

Your work as a self-published author involves managing every aspect of the process, from writing to marketing.

"I enjoy every aspect of the self-publishing world. Holding that first physical copy in your hands is unmatched. It gives me a sense of accomplishment when I see someone reading my books or when a review comes in. Good or bad, reviews hold immense value for a self-published author, along with word of mouth. If you like our work, shout it from the rooftops, please! The most challenging aspect is marketing and enticing readers to choose your book over others while encouraging them to leave meaningful reviews."

In "The Temptress and Her Clients," you delve into the steamy and seductive world of a high-end temptress. What motivated you to write these stories, and how do you balance explicit content with meaningful character development?

"'The Temptress and Her Clients' served as a refreshing break between 'Love You Always' and 'I Do Always.' The Always series is a rollercoaster of emotions. (SPOILER ALERT: BOOK 3 COMING 2025!) This book was inspired by TikTok. I found myself on the wrong side of the TikTok algorithm, fascinated by the different dynamics I witnessed. What drove these people intrigued me, and thus 'The Temptress' was born. Unlike the professionals on TikTok, Elizabeth likes to break all the rules with her selective client list. While I don’t reveal many details about the characters, I do delve deeper in part 2. These two books are purely for explicit enjoyable fun; remember, you’re not meant to know every aspect of the characters’ personal lives."

As a mother of three and a writer, how do you balance your personal and professional life? What advice would you give to other aspiring writers who manage multiple responsibilities and wish to pursue their passion for writing?

"My life is a whirlwind of chaos. My three children are AuDHD with anxiety disorders, so there’s never a dull moment. I’m grateful for my fantastic support network and write during every spare moment, even if it means sacrificing sleep. My advice to aspiring writers is simple: 'just do it.' Don’t worry about appearances or conforming to rigid rules. Break free from constraints and let your writing be a unique expression of your soul."

Indie, Interview