In this interview we welcome author Ayura Ayira. With a track record that shines across NBC, ABC, FOX, and beyond, Ayira’s literary prowess has truly captivated audiences worldwide. Her narratives, hailed as both affecting and essential, resonate deeply, celebrating diversity and the indomitable human spirit. In her latest release, Nuclear Harlot, Ayira takes readers along into the shadowy realm of espionage, weaving a tale of intrigue, empowerment, and the pursuit of redemption amidst power and desire. Read on as we learn a little more about the innerworkings of author Ayira’s mind, uncovering the inspiration and insight that fuel her storytelling.
Can you provide a brief overview of NUCLEAR HARLOT and what motivated you to write this particular piece of international women’s fiction?
Nuclear Harlot is a novel that tells the story of a beautiful Afro-Venezuelan woman raised on a fledgling cocoa plantation. In the aftermath of a tragedy, she has to make some compromising decisions to ensure her and her family’s survival. I’ve never been interested in writing perfect characters. I believe that, like people, characters gain beauty and strength in overcoming life’s adversities.
I don’t shy away from sex, violence or morally challenging situations. While these topics aren’t my only focus, I enjoy exploring the human condition and the societal programming that causes us to empathize with some while happily hating others. Perfecting the balance between entertainment and meaningful social commentary is lifelong work.
How does the international backdrop enhance the storytelling? In what ways does the global setting influence the characters and plot?
The global setting in Nuclear Harlot is critical as it reflects a universal truth: all people want the same thing—love, connection, freedom and basic human rights. I hope readers will step into the shoes of the lead character and consider her choices instead of immediately dismissing them.
International women’s fiction often features strong, complex female characters. Can you share insights into the characters in your book and the challenges they face, especially in the context of the international theme?
Gisella is a call girl by night and a striving single mother by day, balancing the demands of both lives to ensure her family is well cared for. When she’s asked to deliver a mysterious package, she ends up thrust into the bloodthirsty world of espionage. If things go to plan, the world will never be the same. Fate seems to smile upon her when she meets a wealthy suitor promising love and acceptance. But this isn’t a predictable story, and fate is never that straightforward in my world. Like films and fashion, books should reflect the diversity of the world we live in, which I hope to accomplish with my writing.
Many works of international women’s fiction delve into social issues. Are there specific societal or cultural issues that you wanted to address or bring attention to through your writing?
I wanted to highlight the common yet profound experience of being overlooked, undervalued, and silenced. The main character is nearly swindled out of her life by tragedy; finding a way out of the darkness becomes critical. Beyond overcoming incredible hurdles, she finds space in her heart for trust and love — a journey that seemed impossible at the novel’s outset.
How do you envision readers experiencing NUCLEAR HARLOT? What emotions or reactions do you hope to evoke in your audience?
Life doesn’t always go as planned and bouncing back can be an epic battle. Read all about it.
Relationships often play a crucial role in women’s fiction. How do the characters in your book navigate relationships, and what do these relationships reveal about the broader themes of the book?
The novel explores romantic, familial, and work relationships. These interactions reflect a generation’s apathy from being pushed to the edge and disenfranchised by imposing forces. How does one create a life filled with joy and happiness? This universal question is answered for our lead through her hardships and triumphs.
Writing edgy fiction can present challenges. What were some of the difficulties you faced, and how did you overcome them during the writing process?
The balance of emotional depth and entertainment is hard to maintain. My hope is that a particular quote or scene resonates with the reader beyond the final page.
Looking back at the completion of your book, what impact do you hope it will have on readers, particularly in terms of challenging norms or sparking thought-provoking conversations?
My books aren’t for the faint of heart—readers should be mindful of all trigger warnings. I hope the journey through these pages takes them through a spectrum of emotions.
Are there any notable quotes from your book you’d like to share?
“Depression cares not about what throne you sit on.” —Ayura Ayira
“I don’t regret the time, just the respect I wasted on you.”—Ayura Ayira
“Your job isn’t to make the fool notice you, but to illuminate and those that see the beacon will instinctively move toward you.” —Ayura Ayira
“Compassion isn’t lost in an instant like virginity, it disappears in increments until you are filled with a potent nihilism to which there is no cure.“ —Ayura Ayira
“Repression is the architect of savagery. Forever and always.” —Ayura Ayira
“When a random tells you that you don’t have the right to be the princess in your own life, remember you’ve built your castle and they’re outside staring up at it.” —Ayura Ayira
“Arrogance is a curse bestowed upon the emotionally blind.” —Ayura Ayira
“The most important life hymn: I’m not history repeated. I’m part of the new shift. I’m not afraid to proclaim I am God’s greatest gift.” —Ayura Ayira
Find the Author
NUCLEAR HARLOT
#Sexpionage
The lead starts out as a bowlegged farm girl and evolves into an expert navigator of tradecraft. In the relentless world of spy games, there’s no stopping, no ceasefire, only perpetual war. Being in bed with 
international criminals forces her to question who she trusts most.
Her journey commences with a heart-wrenching tragedy. An Afro-Venezuelan woman, raised on a fledgling plantation, seeks solace in the vibrant city, yearning for a brighter future. Unbeknownst to her, beneath the city’s dazzling façade lurks a realm brimming with enticing danger, driven by a potent combination of power, wealth, and desire.
Desperate to provide for her family and shield them from the truth, she immerses herself in a secret life as a call girl. Soon, she becomes involved in espionage, demanding cover stories, discretion, and emotional intelligence—skills not unlike those required in her current profession. No one respects a hooker enough to recognize her strategic prowess and determination.
That was their mistake.
Her dual life hangs by a thread, until a wealthy suitor enters the scene, promising love and acceptance. But can he be trusted?
With another chance at happiness within reach, she must navigate a treacherous game of seduction, where wealth and violence reign supreme. As she delves deeper into this underworld, she discovers a strength she never knew she had—a strength that may lead her to escape the darkness and embrace a life filled with love and redemption. But in a world where money and murder hold sway, survival itself becomes a gamble. Will she emerge unscathed and seize her chance for a new beginning, or will the night claim her as its victim?
