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At just 22 years old, Filipino-Austrian author Aira Jane Datinguinoo has already established herself as a promising young voice in contemporary romance, LGBTQ+, and fantasy literature. Having published four books at a young age, Aira first discovered her passion for storytelling through anime and online fanfiction, where her creativity and unique imagination quickly gained attention from readers. Over time, she transitioned from writing fanfiction to creating her own original worlds and characters, developing a writing style deeply inspired by emotion, fantasy, and meaningful relationships.
Born and raised in Vienna, Aira recently completed her Matura and is preparing to begin her university journey in Austria, where she plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Economics. Despite balancing academics and writing, she continues to nurture her passion for literature and storytelling.
Aira comes from a religious and supportive family and is also an active member of the Youth for Christ community in Vienna. She credits much of her motivation and perseverance to the encouragement she receives from her family and close friends, especially during moments when writing becomes challenging.
Although many of her stories were initially influenced by Japanese culture and fantasy themes, Aira hopes to one day incorporate more Filipino and Austrian cultural elements into her future works. Her novels, particularly in the Boys’ Love and fantasy genres, continue to resonate with young readers who appreciate heartfelt storytelling and imaginative worlds.
Today, Aira Jane Datinguinoo’s books can be ordered online through Thalia and other online bookstores, as she steadily continues her journey as one of Vienna’s emerging young authors.
THE INTERVIEW
Austrian Press: You’ve already published four books at just 22 years old — what first inspired you to start writing stories?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
I’ve always been a big fan of anime, especially during my teenage years. I watched a lot of different series, and many times I would think about how the endings could have been different or how I wished the story had gone in another direction. That inspired me to start writing fanfiction based on some of my favorite anime shows.
I posted my stories online, and surprisingly they were very well received. For about a year, I focused only on writing fanfiction. Eventually, I realized that I wanted to create my own stories and build my own worlds instead of continuing with existing ones. Around 2020, I officially started writing original stories.
Austrian Press: As a Filipino-Austrian author, how do your two cultures influence the worlds and characters you create?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
At the moment, I haven’t really written characters or stories that are directly influenced by my Filipino or Austrian heritage yet. During my teenage years, I was very drawn to Japanese culture, so many of my fantasy stories were inspired by Japan or set in similar environments.
However, in the future, I would really love to incorporate more Filipino and Austrian elements into my writing. I think both cultures have unique traditions, values, and histories that could add a lot of depth and originality to my stories.
Austrian Press: Many young writers struggle with confidence. What kept you motivated to continue publishing at such a young age?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
To be honest, I’ve also struggled with motivation recently. I haven’t been as active with writing over the past two years, but in the back of my mind, the passion for storytelling is still there. I’ve learned that it’s okay not to write every single day. Even writing once a week is still progress.
What keeps me motivated the most is the support from my family and friends. They continue to encourage me and remind me why I started writing in the first place, and I think that support really helps me keep going.
Austrian Press: Which of your four books felt the most personal to write, and why?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
The most personal one would probably be this particular book because I started writing it around 2019 or 2020, during a time when my creativity and motivation were at their peak. Back then, I was writing almost every day — sometimes even one chapter a day.
It actually took me around two years to finish, but I was emotionally very connected to the story throughout the entire process. I poured so much time, imagination, and energy into it, which is why I consider it my most personal work so far.
Austrian Press: Can you describe your writing process — are you more of a planner or someone who writes spontaneously?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
I’m definitely more of a spontaneous writer. I usually start with ideas or scenes in my head rather than making a detailed plan first. Often, I begin by writing an opening chapter, and only afterward do I start developing the characters, backgrounds, and world-building in more detail.
So my process is very organic. I let the story grow naturally while I’m writing it.
Austrian Press: Who are some authors, artists, or life experiences that have inspired your storytelling style?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
In the beginning, I wasn’t really inspired by specific authors. Instead, I read a lot of comics, especially Boys’ Love comics, and those stories really opened my eyes to the kind of storytelling I wanted to create myself.
I think my inspiration comes more from the emotions, relationships, and themes I experience through stories rather than from individual writers. Even now, I wouldn’t say there’s one particular author who influences me the most.
Austrian Press: Looking ahead, what kinds of stories or projects are you excited to explore next?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
Right now, my ongoing Boys’ Love novel will most likely continue with another book, and possibly even a third book in the series — although I’m still deciding on that.
At the same time, I’m currently working on what would be my third fantasy novel. I’m hoping it will also be published on Amazon in the future, but I’m still taking my time with the project.
Austrian Press: What message would you like to share with younger people who dream of becoming authors someday?
Aira Jane Datinguinoo:
I would say: just keep writing, even when the motivation isn’t always there. If writing is something you truly love and feel passionate about, then you’ll always find your way back to it.
For me, writing was never about money or fame — it was always about passion and creativity. I think that’s very important to remember. Do what you love, believe in your ideas, and don’t be afraid to share your stories with the world. And also, listen to and appreciate the people who support you, because having encouragement from loved ones can make a huge difference.
Austrian Press: Thank you for your time
Aira Jane Datinguinoo: My pleasure
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