Welcome to another exciting edition of our Pae Pukapuka Indie Author Interviews! Today, we have the pleasure of chatting with Jay Shaw, a talented New Zealand author whose stories take readers on thrilling journeys through far-off galaxies, wolf-shifter packs, and the glitzy world of Hollywood romance. With a deep passion for sci-fi action and sizzling love stories, Jay has captivated audiences with a universe full of vivid characters and high-stakes adventure. Join us as Jay shares insights into their creative process, the indie author experience in New Zealand, and the journey that brought them to where they are today.
Can you share your background and how you became a writer?
I was at a crossroads where great changes were afoot, and I was left wondering what the next chapter of my life would entail. Then, as I made my kids’ school lunches, an image of a woman walking along the beach with the sea breeze playing in her hair, came to me. I imagined the scent of the ocean and the sand under her bare feet. It was as I walked past my computer, I knew I had to write her story down. From the moment I began to type, it flowed. It felt right and I began to wonder if writing was what I was meant to do.As I continued to expand on my first imaginings, an entire universe full of amazing characters was opening itself up to me, inviting me along for the ride. But it was a conversation with my best friend that convinced me I was writing not only a book, but many books. I was taking the first steps down a path which was feeling more right the longer I stayed on it.
I wanted to share that sense of being beside characters as they went on their journey, to smell the air of an alien world, and feel your heart pound with the excitement of flying a space fighter through a nebula. For me, there’s nothing like a sci-fi story packed full of action and smoking-hot romance.
I hope following Julia, meeting her space Colonel, and seeing the Dragonus Galaxy through their eyes, is as thrilling for readers as it was for me to write.
What inspired you to write your first book?
WOLFHAVEN was the second book I wrote, but the first to be published. It came to me as I scrolled through Pinterest and came across the name Asena – meaning “Mother of Wolves”. I pinned it as interesting and kept scrolling, only to find another name, Connell – meaning “Strong Wolf”. At that point I knew Connell was one of Asena’s grandsons, and the story and it’s world grew from there. But it didn’t become a book until an author friend encouraged me to write for Nano. The first draft of WOLFHAVEN was complete by the end of that November.When WOLFHAVEN appeared on Amazon’s website three months later. I was “well, this is a thing now” and bounced around the house for a week or so with a stupid happy grin on my face.
Who are some of your biggest literary influences?
Clive Cussler - an amazing talent for describing action, pacing and keeping the reader holding their breath.
Wilbur Smith - his ability to wrap the reader in the epic scope of a world rich with all five senses.
Sara Donati - vibrant characters and the ability to tug at your heartstrings
How does being from New Zealand shape your writing?
Being a Kiwi hasn't really shaped my writing in any particular way, I don't think. With early book locales such as alternate reality galaxies, and fantasy forests, it was more about using US English for sales. My recent contemporary series is the first to be set in New Zealand, so I've used NZ English. It's been fun to slip into my native slang and visit local settings.
What is your typical writing routine like?
I'm old school. I love the organic-ness of handwriting in a notebook. I enjoy being able to make mistakes, cross out, draw arrows, and even turn the book sideways and write up the margin. It's the ultimate expression of creativity. I tend to do this in the morning, then type up in the evening when the house is quiet. I consider typing up my first edit and it's where the story truly starts to take shape.
How do you approach creating your characters?
My characters approach me, lol. Usually they are fully formed and know what their story will be, regardless of what I might say on the matter. Second and third tier characters evolve with the story, some demanding their own books along the way. This is how standalones becomes a three book trilogies.
What part of the writing process do you find most challenging?
The first word on the first page. You may have the entire story written in great detail in your mind, but how to get that first word down can be terrifying. After that the draft is a minefield of stumbles and sprints, and chaos you fear you'll never unsnarl. The relief on completing it is heady and ironically indescribable.
Do you use any specific tools or methods to keep your writing on track?
I have writing dates. Three mornings and three nights a week are scheduled vid chats with author besties. I find tremendous value in spending time, sharing a creative hive mind, laughing and confessing, and celebrating all the ups and downs, struggles and successes, that are the realities of the writing journey. Some days just knowing you're not alone in your thoughts does wonders to your creative soul. We don't hesitate to scold each other when we're slacking off, and offer encouragement and praise too. Writing is a solitary career and the love and support we give each other is the best morale boost of all.
What inspired your latest book, and can you give us a brief synopsis?
My latest book LIMELIGHT ENVY was the fourth and final installment of my Movie Star Romances. A series that started life as a "lets write a novella and publish it in a month" challenge from an author friend.
Each book follows one of the four main cast members in the Dante Jones sci-fi blockbuster trilogy - Jacob Starr, Adam Chase, Savannah Westbrook, and Xavier King - as they struggle to find true love within the superficial world of Hollywood.
Think of each story as a hot and sexy dose of afternoon delight ;)
How long did it take to complete your latest book from start to finish?
There's an assumption that novellas take no time at all to write, when most often the opposite is true. They require the same amount of research and character/plot development as longer books do. Usually, I can finish the first draft of a project within a month. Due to real life interruptions LIMELIGHT ENVY took three. It was both a relief and a joy to see it completed and lined up next to the others.
What are the biggest challenges and advantages of being an indie author in New Zealand?
Until I found my tribe, the biggest challenge for me was feeling as if all the action happened in the northern hemisphere. Social media gives this warped sense of isolation that can kill creativity and confidence. Then you meet your people and discover there *is* writer life at the bottom of the world. :)
What advice would you give to aspiring indie authors in New Zealand?
Other authors are not your enemy. Despite the fact that we’re all in the same industry, there is room for all of us, and if you have a question or need help just ask. There’s a hundred percent chance one, or all of us, has been where you are now.
Whether it's a paragraph, a page, or an entire chapter. Write every day.
Trust your story, believe in your characters. If it feels right. It is right.
What do you hope readers take away from your books?
I hope my books offer readers an escape from their everyday lives, whether it's in a far-off galaxy, with a hidden wolf-shifter pack, or in a pretty New Zealand town. I hope they get to go on an exciting, breath-taking adventure while enjoying a cuppa or glass of wine, before they have to return to their reality. And with the turn of the last page, they'll exhale a soft sigh and smile. Because my characters have helped them find something that makes their heart and soul lighter, happier.
What’s next for you as a writer? Any upcoming projects?
My current work in progress is the first in a new series of Endangered Romances. Set in Kenya in the world of black rhino poaching, and the men and woman who seek to protect and preserve these endangered animals. Expec a generous helping of danger, action, conflict, and hot steamy romance. SAVAGE LOVE is earmarked for release early 2025.
I will be an attending author at the following events:
- Ages Of Pages Book Fair, Claudelands Showgrounds, Hamilton, April 2025
- A Romantic Adventure: Book Signing Event, Christchurch 2026
It’s been a delight to hear from Jay, whose passion for storytelling and world-building is both inspiring and infectious. Whether you're looking to escape into a far-off galaxy or a Hollywood love story, Jay’s books offer the perfect mix of adventure, romance, and excitement. As Jay continues to craft new stories and explore new genres, we eagerly await what’s next. Be sure to check out Jay’s work for an unforgettable reading experience, and stay tuned for more interviews with incredible indie authors here at Pae Pukapuka!
Jay Shaw's Social Media Links:
| TikTok |
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Noho ora mai, stay well! Happy reading 📚
