Ash Jay (centre) showcasing some of her published novels.

By: Elijah Maingi
- Could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
I am Martha Wambui alias Ash Jay Author, 34 years born and raised in Nakuru County. Professionally, I am a Chemistry/Maths teacher having taught for the last ten years. I pursued a degree in Education Science at Moi University and currently undertaking a Masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Kibabii University.
- What inspired you to become an author?
I had a passion for writing since primary school, this was inspired by my dad who was my teacher of English. Later in May 2019, I felt overwhelmed by so many ideas and the urge to pen them down pushed me not to procrastinate anymore.
- How do you come up with ideas for your stories?
When I want to write, I just have a rough idea of what I want to write then when I start writing ideas start flowing in which I am able to adjust them in my mind and change the storyline.
- What do you hope readers take away from your work?
My novels being based on family dramas, they give hope and encourage people who face similar situations in life.
- Who are some of your favorite authors and how have they influenced your writing?
Mwangi Ruheni and an online writer called Irene Syokau. They instilled in me the art of creating some nice suspense that leaves the reader on the edge of their seats.
- Could you tell us about your most recent book and what inspired you to write it?
The Title of the book is “Clean Injustice”. It is a modern-day drama that is based on crime and sleuth job. It was inspired by love triangles that lead to the death of the victims. It leaves the reader in suspense, wondering who the killer is.
- Do you have any upcoming projects that you can share with us?
Currently, I am in the process of printing my 7th to 10th novel which is already published. I plan to publish the other eight novels that are in soft copy.
- How do you balance writing with other responsibilities and commitments?
In the past, I would write any free time I got since all my writing I do them from the phone. However, later I had to adjust to give myself time to breathe. Right now I have taken a break to focus on publishing then resume at the end of the year as I focus also on my masters degree.
- What advice do you have for aspiring authors?
I would advise them not hold back that talent. From the day I penned down the first sentence, I have never looked back. We have readers out here, who love some good reading and you might be delaying what they need.
- How many novels do you have in the market right now and where can one get them?
I have six hard copies in the market; Namely Prime Minister’s daughter, 4 Minutes, Silver Lining, Never Meet Her, Reunion and Village Well, and other stories. The novels are available in some selected Naivas outlets, Nuria Book Store in Nairobi, and readers can purchase them directly from me. They are also available in soft copies, at Nuria App and on Amazon.
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