Q. At what point did you decide to be an author and what was your path to publication?
A. As a literature student at St Aloysius College, I became fascinated with the works of Charles Dickens. It was during my reading of one of his classics that I decided to become an author and embark on the path followed by many esteemed writers. With a background in marketing and corporate storytelling, I had the skills to navigate the publishing process. However, venturing
Into the realm of fiction allowed me to delve into the depths of human emotions, refine my storytelling abilities, and establish profound connections with readers. This experience holds a special place in my heart, surpassing the fulfilment of any corporate job.
Q. What do you do when a new idea comes to your mind while you are still working on a book?
A. When a new idea arises while I’m working on a book, I make sure to jot it down for consideration. If it fits well within the story’s context, I incorporate it. Otherwise, I keep it in my notes for future projects. In fact, a similar situation occurred while writing my latest book, “That Girl,” where readers will feel the desire for a sequel upon reaching the end.
Q. Who is your favourite character to write and why is this person your favourite?
A. Ifra is my most beloved character to write about. Her creation was inspired by a personal experience from my childhood. At a funeral I attended when I was ten years old, I witnessed a young girl desperately trying to wake up her deceased father, believing he was only asleep. Thisemotional moment left a lasting impact on me, igniting a desire to explore the fictional journey ofa young girl facing profound loss. Ifra embodies that inspiration. Writing about her struggles and fight for a better life often evoked tears and deep emotions. There is much more to Ifra’scharacter than what is revealed in the book, which is why I am strongly considering a sequel.
Q. Describe your writing process?
A. My writing process begins with a peaceful morning ritual. After meditating, I sit down with a cup of tea and my laptop to write. I dedicate at least 30 to 60 minutes each day to either write or ponder over stories and characters. While working on “That Girl,” I spent a couple of months outlining the story and developing the characters. Once the main plot and characters were in place, I began building each chapter. Throughout this 18 months’ process, I drew inspiration from the people around me, incorporating elements of their personalities into the development of my fictional characters.
Q. What message or takeaway do you hope readers will find in “That Girl”?
A. Above all, “That Girl” aims to resonate with readers, reminding them of the transformative power of love and the significance of self-discovery. It invites reflection on the sacrifices and challenges that come with pursuing true happiness.
Q. Can readers anticipate more captivating stories from you in the future?
A. Absolutely! I am excited to continue exploring the human experience through storytelling. Readers can look forward to more heartfelt narratives that delve into the depths of emotions, relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit. Additionally, I may also work on non-fiction books, such as the one on B2B Tech Marketing, leveraging my expertise in the field.
