Meet Kochery C Shibu - the Author of Faith and the Beloved

Two weeks back we reviewed the book "Faith and the Beloved" by Shibu Kochery. We liked the book and felt that book should be adapted for web series. Those who have missed our reviews do check here.

Blog Review - Blog Post 

Vlog Review - Video Review

Today we have author Shibu with us to discuss more on his book "Faith and the Beloved". Before we go to the book discussion, let me share a brief of his background.

 

Educational Background

MA English Pune university 1989, MSc defense Studies Chennai University 1998

Interests at school/college apart from studies?

Games Basketball, Hockey, Handball, football

Professional Positions Held

Worked in the Indian Navy and commanded two warships

Worked in hydroelectric projects

Worked with the shipping industry

Reading habits and favorite authors

I am a voracious reader. Stopped reading fiction since 2009 when I started writing Men and Dreams in the Dhaualdhar. I do read across the genres. There are many authors whom I have liked

Let's discuss Shibu's writing career. When did you start writing?

The inspiration started from school days. Being a career soldier, most fo the writing in defense was about strategy, warfare, and tactics and of classified nature. Efforts at writing novels during his service career died within a few pages 

It was whilst working on. A hydroelectric project in the Himalayas that I started writing in 2009. It took four years and 3600 man writing hours to complete the book and another year in editing 

When did you decide to become a writer?

It has been with me since my school days

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

To write more books 

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

Till date, the writing has been in addition to the work which I do and so mostly they have been in the evenings after working hours and on Sundays and holidays

What have you written before "Faith and the Beloved"?

Men and dreams in the dhauladhar were the first books. I was adjudged the best author of 2019 by Salismania.com 

What genre are your books?

The first book was a combination of classic, thriller, and technical fiction in one. The second book is a crime thriller. 

Now is the time to discuss "Faith and the Beloved". Can you describe your current book in a few lines? What’s it about?

It is about the power of belief and to what extent individuals go to protect their beloved ones 

Where did you get the idea for this book?

Research and reading 

How much research did you do for this book?

The book was researched and written over two years 

What was the most difficult thing about writing your latest book?

Getting the interspersing of the thriller ingredients right 

When was your book released?

May 2020

What are you working on at the minute?

Many ideas churning, nothing firm yet

What are your thoughts on writing a book series?

A thought in the works, but nothing concrete yet

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Observe and write

Links for your book readers

• Shibu's Wiki Page
• Facebook Page
• Twitter
• Amazon Author Page
• Book Links - Faith and the Beloved: Amazon,
• Men and Dreams in the Dhauladhar - Niyogi Site
• Goodreads Author Page

A Brief Discussion with Roshmi Roy about Climbing the Beanstalk - a Self-help Book

These days it is difficult to spot a self-help book, that can accompany you till the last page. Roshmi Roy did a wonderful job by delivering one such master piece. Three days back we reviewed "Climbing the Beanstalk: It’s Up to You to Reach the Top" by Roshmi. We approached her to know how she has conceptualized the book. And what turned out was a brief interview. So without wasting time, let us take you through points we discussed.

So ma'm can you tell us about your educational background?

I did my schooling in La Martiniere for Girls, Kolkata. This is a school founded by Major-

General Claude Martin, a Frenchman. This accounts for my interest in the French language.In those days we took the Senior Cambridge Examination when passing out of school. I won a Rotary International scholarship to study in the U.S. and my first year in college was spent at the School of Ozarks, Missouri. I returned to India to complete my studies, and went on to do M.A and Ph.D  in English from the University of Calcutta.

What were your other activities during school/college?

I was never much of a sportsperson. But I always participated in the dance and theatrical programmes. I also enjoyed painting. I did not continue my dancing beyond the student years, but taking part in theatre and directing plays has been a lifelong passion.

What are some of the day jobs you have held?

I started my career as an English teacher quite early in life and steadily gained seniority _ from schools to colleges, and lastly I was Professor of English and Business Communication in management institutes. I have also worked as educational co-ordinator and content writer. After I did my certification as a Personality Development and Soft Skills Trainer, I switched over to training.

Do you read much, and if so who are your favourite authors?

I have always been fond of reading. I became a member of the British Council Library and the American Center Library, from where I would borrow books.I was a member of a book club called Bookpeckers, which meets every month to discuss a book that has previously been decided upon. During my schooldays I was fond of P.G. Wodehouse and George Bernard Shaw. Now I read a variety of authors like Paulo Coelho, Margaret Atwood,  Amitav  Ghosh and Arundhati Roy. I found the books of Mitch Albom inspiring.

When did you start writing?

I started writing articles for my college newsletter. I also wrote about my travels and sent them to newspapers along with photographs. I contributed to college magazines wherever I have taught. I also wrote poetry in my spare time, but that was kept strictly private.

When did you decide to become a writer?

The desire to be a writer has always been there, but this book happened recently because I felt I wanted to share my knowledge about personality development and soft skills  with others. I think the best way to share is through a book.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I would like to venture into short stories, or maybe a novella. The novel is on the faraway horizon. It is always better to start with achievable goals.

Is this your debut work? If not so, what have you written?

Since I am into theatre, I have mostly written plays. These were not for publication, but were performed by the students of the drama groups in various colleges. I have dramatized two novels_ Right  Ho, Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse and Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie, which we were going to perform and there was no drama script available. What I have published is my Ph.D  thesis on feminine consciousness, which is entitled ‘Sisterhood of Women’.

In what genre are your books?

They come under different genres. The current book is in the motivational category, and the previous book can be classified as literary criticism.

Can you describe your current book in a few lines? What is it about?

This is a motivational book to make you realize it is within your power to realize your dreams. You must be willing to seize the opportunities that come your way and take the risks involved. You also need to discover where your talent lies, and find the career that you are best suited for.

This book will guide you by showing the ways in which you can improve yourself, and acquire the skills required to shine among your peers.

Where did you get the idea for this book?

This idea came to me while teaching soft skills to students. I found that many students who are brilliant in their subject area are totally lacking when it comes to soft skills, which includes communication skills, interpersonal relations, building self-esteem, leadership skills and others. So I thought a book that sets out everything in a very simple way would be useful for career –seekers and even those who are planning to make a career change in mid-life. Actually, there is no particular age when you can decide to take up the career of your choice.

How much research did you do for this book?

I did read books by the motivational masters like Dale Carnegie and Norman Vincent Peale, and also current authors like Robin Sharma, but I have given my own personal take on the topics.

Have you planned on a book release?

The book launch is planned for the 18th October at Atta Galatta, Koramanagala, Bangalore, 5.30  _ 7pm.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Make a habit of writing _ start with a journal where you jot down your own observations. Remember, the best writing is authentic, based on your own experiences. Read a lot, but write in your own style.

If you have missed the book's review you can check here.

Book Discussion with Aditya KV - Author of Daitya Diaries

Today we have Aditya KV with us to discuss his book Daitya Diaries with us.

Do tell us about your educational & professional background?

I am Fellow of Cornell Alliance for Science and also hold  PGD in Management. Currently I am working with a Production house developing scripts but previously in my corporate stint I was largely into communications consulting specializing in the fields of Science and technology.

What were you like at school/college apart from studies?

I was an avid debater and my debates were fueled by the plethora of books I ended up reading. I spent an inordinate amount of time out of classes working on obscure projects which might never see the light of the day.School years were probably the time I was usually locked up in the library and had an unhealthy obsession with history.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors? Which author inspire you the most?

I read quite a bit. My most favorite author has been Alexandre Dumas. Count of Monte Cristo has been an inspiration and will always be the go to book for me to understand the baser human emotion of rage. Even the Character of Vaira had been modeled on Edmond Dantes from the book.

When did you start writing?

This was not very long ago, I started writing about 4 years back in 2015. I ended up working on a treatment for a film script and that pretty much put me on track to write my first book

When did you decide to become a writer?

Being a book worm, I always wondered how it would be to see my own name in print. It has been a lifelong dream but It took me years to gather the courage and focus to sit down and write the story I wanted to. I kept postponing it telling myself I needed more research but I think I was simply lay or even worse I was afraid of how the book would turn out.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I would,like continue enjoy writing. The process is tedious and enjoyable but I hope someday I dont find it only tedious. I think the biggest ambition would be to keep enjoying the process.

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

I am a nocturnal creature and you would find me at late night coffee shops across Hyderabad writing away till early mornings. Yes, my day does get affected but nowadays, writing is taking the priority.

Is this your debut work?

Yes, Daitya Diaries is my debut work to be published, sometime back I did write a series called the K project for a site. That was a quite hit with Mythology fans.

What genre are your books?

I write a mixture of Hindu Mythology and world History, Someone asked me to describe my book once and I said it is when Lord Indra Meets Genghis Khan and they do meet in the book. I have to clarify here that I write only fiction and nothing I write needs to be taken too seriously. It is for entertainment only.

Can you describe your current book in few lines? What’s it about?

Daitya Diaries is an amalgamation of world history and Hindu mythology with a tale of revenge thrown into the mix. It brings forth unknown characters in the mythological space which are so obscure that they have been forgotten. It is an ode to the pagan mythology across the globe. It also subscribes to the idea of humanism, which is also a tenet in Hindusim and puts man as the someone who can achieve beyond the potential of just being a pawn in the cosmic verse Somehow I believe the idea “ I am just human” to be more of a compliment than an insult. Though through the book you are following the life of a principal character, we interweave through time and space of world history this gives the audience a glimpse into world history through the lenses of Hindu mythology.

Give us an insight into your main character(s)

The key character here is Mallikarjun/Vaira. A simple small town tour guide who is wronged. The key element of his story arc is the metamorphosis of the man who has to travel through hell. As the simple world he built for himself crumbles he transforms him into a machine of vengeance. He is a broken man seeking justice for the fate that has been dealt to him.

Where did you get idea for this book?

I have been a huge fan of Marvel and DC comics. Though we had much more entertaining storylines with complex characters and brilliant villains. Hindu mythology never really made it into pop culture. Daitya Diaries is an attempt to bridge the gap, this is pop culture mythology which can be turned into a universe.

How much research did you do for this book?

Travel, for the first 5 years of my career, I used to take long leaves from my work and travel across the country. I have gathered obscure stories of village deities and alternative storytelling. From Varanasi to Kamakhya. This was for writing Daitya Diaries as a 4 part series. The storyline formed in my head over these years and as characters fell into place, it was matter of referring back to my research from these places.

Who is your favorite character in your book and why?

Other than the main characters, Thakshaka is probably my most favorite, his story in a way mirrors that of Vaira, a broken man who sought vengeance and failed at it. A great king among the Nagas reduced to nothing. Even if we go by the cannon of Mahabharata, Thakshaka is one of the most complex characters in play. How he loses his entire family, sees a kingdom built on his home and finally does get revenge on the Pandavas but at a great cost. It is a character with a lot of grey areas and in a way is boon to the author.

Who is your least favorite character and why?

None actually, all the characters have been crafted with care. I don’t think there has been a single arc which I felt burdened writing.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

The pace and the mood are the hardest to maintain, since the book is written over a prolonged period of time, if I end up losing the momentum, it becomes harder to gain it back for myself. Consistency is lost and that affects the flow of the story.

Release date. 

Feb 2019

What are you working on at the minute?

I am currently working on an independent film and a couple of webseries, I have taken to script writing full time recently and it has been a rewarding experience. 

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Keep writing, it is the toughest job on the planet, especially when you are yet to be published.

Meet Varun Sayal - The Author of Demons of Time

We came in contact with Varun Sayal when he had published his first book Time Crawlers. We loved those short stories and during his interview for that book, Varun told us about his future project. After a year he returned with a bang, "Demons of Time: Race to the 7th Sunset". Those who have missed it can check it from below links

1. Review of Time Crawlers
2. Interview for Time Crawlers
3. Review of Demons of Time

In his first interview, you can find the background of Varun and how he started writing. 

Varun without wasting much time lets discuss about your latest book. What is it about? Can you brief us about it?

Demons of Time is a fast-paced science fiction thriller story which follows the arc of a time-traveling hero, Tej, who fights to avert an apocalypse. Though, he has only seven days before all is lost. This book lays the foundation stone for Time Travelers series where I plan to unravel stories about time-demons, time-readers, necromancers, and aliens.

The idea of time travelling is new in Indian Literature. How did you conceptualize it? How many efforts you have given after it?

I have grown up on a heavy dose of fantasy stories from Indian scriptures, so my imagination muscle got a good workout since childhood. I was also a big Doctor Who fan and devoured those YA books in high school. That is where the time travel bug hit me. But for my own writing, I wanted to conceptualize Time Travel in a way which is very different from the usual notion of folks using a time-machine. That concept is over-done in western literature. My notion of time travel is based on biological evolution and genetic transfer of these powers, which is what I bought out in this novel.

If you get an offer of making either movie or series based on the book? Which one will you select? Why?

I really wish that happens, because I would definitely go with a series. Plainly because TV series have a way of engaging audiences for long intervals of time. Even with movies, you can see the excitement among the masses when sequels are announced, which is again in a way serializing a movie. Marvel universe, for example, has engaged fans over years because of series of back to back flicks.

You have finished books with mystery. If you are planning for series how many parts you have thought about?

For now, I have envisioned this series as a trilogy, but I don’t take that as a hard constraint. Readers have given a lot of love to Book # 1, if I see similar engagement with the next two upcoming books, I will write for as long as possible. The characters I have built are strong, they have their unique personalities, voices and their own story arcs. I am even inclined to write spin-off series with characters such as Rudrakshini Devi, the Queen of necromancers.

Any interesting things you would like to share about the book?

The main arc of the story is loosely inspired by the story of Takshak Naag in Indian scriptures who had only seven days to kill a king. He does so to fulfill the curse given by a sage. You can also find references of twin demon brothers which is a recurrent theme in Hindu mythology. But the story itself largely takes place in the modern world with back and forth into distant past.

Meet Nishith & Tushar Author of Demystifying Digital Transformation : A Practitioners Companion

Today we have Nishith & Tushar to discuss their book "Demystifying Digital Transformation".

Educational Background

Nishith – MBA in International Business

Tushar – MBA, ME,BE

What are some day jobs you have held?

Nishith – Siemens, PeopleSoft, Adani Group, RPG Group

Tushar – Consultant TCS, Associate Partner - Strategy & Transformation IBM, SVP-Adani

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors? Which author inspire you the most?

Nishith – Mainly non-fiction; many authors writing in the realm of management, psychology, fiction,etc.

Tushar – NONFICTION: Books on Behavioral Economics, Macro –Economics, Innovation & Creativity, Technology & it’s impact on society, markets, organizations &individuals.

When did you start writing?

Nishith – This is the first book. I have not written on any topic in the public domain.

Tushar – Started writing blog from 2000 on wards. Also written article in magazines & blogs in linked in

When did you decide to become a writer?

Nishith – When I left my RPG job. Thought I would do blogging but ended up co- authoring a book.

Tushar –Decided to write a book instead of another article, as the topic deserved deeper and comprehensive treatment and needed to be referred to by readers multiple times.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

Nishith – Maybe write another book or even a sequel to the first one

Tushar – Write a book every two years- as long as the subject is relevant and I have reasons to believe I can add value to the reader

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

Nishith – It depends on the consulting assignments on hand.

Tushar – I live through the topic throughout the week and write in one sitting, once there is clarity on my PoV. To ensure progress, I do try to get at least few hrs of writing every week.

Is this your debut work? If not so, what have you written?

Tushar – Written Blogs and several Articles – details can be seen from my linked in profile

 What genre are your books?

Tushar – NON FICTION- I prefer to link theory with practice at management / organizations or individuals levels. Idea is for the reader to appreciate reality, get some insights into whats causing it, and finally some options of addressing that reality and make a difference.

Can you describe your current book in few lines? What’s it about?

Digital transformation is inevitable, for organisations who seek to remain relevant in the future. The objective of any digital transformation is to innovatively apply the technology stack to reinvent the organisation and the way in which it will engage with the customer to deliver value to them.

Given that each organisation has a unique DNA with distinctive aspirations, the digital journey need to be individually crafted with clear purpose, technology choices, and implementation specifics. Leaders will be called upon to take well-informed and deliberative decisions that have enormous implications and could very well define the future of the organisation.

This book provides the necessary framework to assist leaders define their transformation agenda and execution specifics. Authors present an integrated approach, covering technological, strategic and organisational perspectives, while pointing out the decisions that need to be considered at various milestones during the digital transformation journey.

This is an essential handbook for the industry leaders and transformation professionals as they embark on the digital transformation journey.

Where did you get idea for this book?

Nishith– From our direct experience, perusing the literature, and realizing there is no concise, comprehensive, and a holistic book on this topic

Tushar : I truly believe that the motivation to write this book is to bring certain rigor and sanity around this topic of digital transformation, so as to avoid lot of wasted efforts, resources and disappointment within organizations.

How much research did you do for this book?

Nishith & Tushar –Substantial.

Material for the book comes from three sources: Published reports from authentic sources, intense discussions with consultants & fellow professionals involved in digital transformation exercises on their experiences and (3) authors own experience in this field.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

Nishith & Tushar – Coordinating the content of the book with both of us writing at the same time, with different writing style. Given that the scope of digital transformation is very wide- across sectors and technologies, the key challenge was to describe elements, frameworks, insights and illustrations in a way that it is relevant to all, and at the same-time is not too obvious. Several sections were to be rewritten to make language simple and actionable, keeping the readers’ profile as non-technical manager or leadership community.

Release date.

Nishith & Tushar – December 12,2018

What are you working on at the minute?

Nishith – On-hand consulting assignments and ideating on the next book.

What are your thoughts on writing a book series?

Nishith & Tushar – May be, in any case the book would require updated version every two months

We may consider follow-up book linked to specific sector or technology 

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Nishith & Tushar–

• Know your purpose to write the book- Why book? given other channels of expression available
• How would reader gain by reading this book – would act, think feel differently post reading it
• Delete every word/sentence that does not address the above two 

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

Tushar: I have got a US patent on Virtual Team Effectiveness 

Links for your book readers

• Blog: http://sustaining-relevance.blogspot.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tushar.khosla.1
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/tusharkhoslaa
• Linkedin: Nishith & Tushar
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/2IjhHcH
• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18767231.Tushar_Khosla_Nishith_Sharan

Meet Nishika Bajaj - Author of Tiny Tara and the Tree of Life

India needs quality literature works for kids and middle grades. And every such work should be appreciated well. Recently we read "Tiny Tara and the Tree of Life" by Nishika Bajaj, which was actually applaudable work. Today we have Nishika with us to discuss the book in detail.

Can you brief us about your educational background?

I am a post graduate in print journalism from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. Prior to that, I did my MBA in Finance from the Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi, which followed closely on the heels of a B.Com. (H) from Sri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC).

What were you like at school/college apart from studies?

I was a keen contributor to the college magazine while at Sri Ram College of Commerce. In fact, we started a cross-college publication called Candid Expressions, as we were keen to have a larger audience for college magazines than just the students we regularly hobnobbed with.

What are some day jobs you have held?

Banker, Editor, Content Specialist and Communications Consultant – these are just some of the hats I’ve worn at work.

Do you read much and, if so, who are your favorite authors? Which author inspires you the most?

Enid Blyton, Agatha Christie, PG Wodehouse, JK Rowling, Ruth Rendell, John Grisham, Jeffrey Archer, Vikram Seth, Amish, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, Amitabh Ghosh – the list is long! Most recently, Amish has been a big inspiration for the way he used elements of Indian mythology to spark interest in youth and show them a side of Lord Shiva that has made him contemporary and cool!

When did you start writing?

I began to take writing seriously when some friends and I started aninter-college magazine in Delhi University.

When did you decide to become a writer?

I decided to become a writer when my child was born. My now 2-year-old son loves all things green and I realised that I must do more to encourage children to explore nature, rather than take refuge behind the TV, tablets, phones and laptops.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

To encourage more children (and grown-ups with an inner child!) to read as a matter of course, to read about what matters and to read as a foundation for making the world a better, a greener and a kinder place.

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

I work from home, so I save time commuting to and from office and use that time to pen down my thoughts for writing my next work.

Is this your debut work?

I write blogs for LinkedIn where I have made a name for myself as the Top Voice for 2018 in the field of Philanthropy and Global Development.

What genre are your books?

My book pertains to the genre of children’s fiction – a blend of mythology and contemporary themes such as global warming. 

Can you describe your current book in few lines? What’s it about?

The adventures of the Tiny trio – princess Tara, flight-crazy Sam and healer Neera – take us on a journey through the Tree of Life, and beyond. As the construction of the Delhi Metro begins to threaten their existence, tree spirits Tara, Sam and Neera use their brains to solve problems that even grown-ups find challenging. Lord Ganesha does a cameo, coming to their rescue when things appear most bleak. Of course, it’s not the God himself, but his statue that saves the day. How? Well, the miracle of the milk-drinking statue manifesting below the Tree of Life convinces the religious majority that this sacred land must be saved. 

Give us an insight into your main character

Tiny Tara is the princess of the Tinies, the tree sprites who live in trees all around us but are hidden from our view. She is a feisty spirit, an untamed and wild child who decides her own destiny. As a tree spirit from the House of Light, she possesses unusual divination skills and can read the minds of those around her. Her friends, mischievous Sameer from the House of Air – who can never stay still– and calm Neera from the House of Water – who can heal with just a simple touch –are the other characters who are central to this story. They forge a deep bond as they go through a time of great trial and tribulation for the tree spirit community, and I only hope that readers are able to forge as deep a bond with these lovable tree spirits.

Where did you get idea for this book?

It was when my son was born. His first words after family were centred on birds, animals, flowers and trees. He is still too young for complete sentences but his body language and his love for the outdoors leave no doubt in my mind that there is so much more harmony between children and nature than we grown-ups can ever comprehend.  

How much research did you do for this book?

I did a lot of research into trees, birds and bugs. I wanted to see the world from the perspective of tree spirits and try to understand how they would view the world from a tree top.

Who is your favorite character in your book and why?

Tara, hands down. I identify with her drive to change the world and make it a better place. I moved from banking to journalism with the vague idea of making a difference, and I am constantly trying to make the world a better place with my philanthropy-centric blogs on LinkedIn and now this book on nature. Tara too has a rebellious streak in her that makes her go against the tide and do what she thinks is right, rather than give in to peer pressure and go with the flow.

Who is your least favorite character and why?

Parthiv, from the House of Earth, is a truly despicable character. He has nothing to redeem him and is always taking pleasure in others’ misery. He provides the perfect foil for the tiny trio of Tara, Sam and Neera who are always trying tohelp others and ultimately change the world for the better.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

Balancing my human child on the one hand and my brain child on the other!

Release date.

31st December 2018.

What are you working on at the minute?

The next book in the Tree of Life series.

What are your thoughts on writing a book series?

As I mentioned, I am happy to write one, provided this book finds a willing audience.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Keep reading! The day you stop reading, is the day you stop learning, and the day you stop learning is the day you start dying.

Links for your book readers

• Blog: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/nishikabajaj
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nishika.bajaj.5
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/nishikabajaj
• LinkedIn: https://mu.linkedin.com/in/nishikabajaj
• Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2TIZOtT
• Book Links: https://amzn.to/2HqKZ8y
• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43899812-tiny-tara-and-the-tree-of-life

Meet Sudhir Ahluwalia - Author of Natural Solutions for Cancer

We have hosted interviews with many authors. Today we have botany and herb expert Mr. Sudhir Ahluwalia with us to discuss his latest book "Natural Solutions for Cancer".

Can you please brief us about your educational background?

BSc Hans Raj College, Delhi University, Post Graduate Diploma in Forestry from Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun

What were you like at school/college apart from studies?

Ordinary student. I started writing short stories when in college.

What are some day jobs you have held?

Member of the Indian Forest Service for 23 years ; Global business consulting head at Tata Consultancy Services for 10 years; business adviser to multiple technology and consultancy firms for 5 years.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors? Which author inspire you the most?

Yes, I read non-fiction books. My favorite titles are – After the Music Stopped by Alan Blinder; The Future of Mind – Michio Kaku; The Gene- Siddhartha Mukherjee

When did you start writing?

My first short stories were published in The Mirror and The Caravan around 1970s when I was finishing graduation from Delhi University

When did you decide to become a writer?

My first book was published pre digital age. It was The Indian Forestry Scene by International Publisher in 1991

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

Want to explore the world of herbs and plants. 

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

I write five days Mondays to Fridays from 8 am to 3 pm. I do not take an off day during these days except when I am unwell.

Is this your debut work? If not so, what have you written?

My previous books are – The Indian Forestry Scene; Holy Herbs: Modern Connections to Ancient Plants; Asian Herbs; Natural Solutions for Cancer

What genre are your books?

Health and natural products

Can you describe your current book in few lines?

The failure of modern medicine to find a satisfactory and cost-effective solution to cancer has led many patients turn to complementary alternative medicine for relief. Patients and caregivers both need to get a balanced, scientific evidence-based view of the various nature-based solutions on offer. The book is divided into two parts: fundamental principles and herbs used in treating cancer.

Where did you get idea for this book?

Cancer is a disease which brings fear to many. There are certain herbs and foods with anticancer properties. I wanted to explore the world of natural solutions for cancer.

How much research did you do for this book?

I undertook dozens of trips to the forests where herbs with anticancer properties grow. I had detailed conversations with oncologists, Ayurveda professionals, scientists, Tibetan medicine doctors, European scientists engaged in doing research on herbs for drug discovery. The research work was spread over a period of close to a year. 

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

The use of Sanskrit shlokas and terms by Ayurveda professionals describing their treatment methods was the toughest thing to figure out, analyze and put in simple English.

Do you have a trailer or do you intend to create one for your own book?

Release date. 

4th February, 2019

What are you working on at the minute?

Working on another title on Natural Solutions for Obesity

What are your thoughts on writing a book series?

Natural Solutions for Obesity is the second title in the series on Natural Solutions for major ailments. Natural Solutions for Cancer was the first one.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

If you enjoy writing, go ahead and take the plunge.

Links for your book readers

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sudhir.ahluwalia
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/sudhirahluwalia
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sudhirahluwalia/
• Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B072Z9J9P5
• Book Links: Natural Solutions for Cancer
• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard

Meet Nithya - Author of Once Upon a Reunion

Today we have Nithya to discuss her book "Once Upon a Reunion" with us. Those who have missed our review of the book can check here.

Before we go to serious questions, can you please brief our readers about your educational & professional background?

Educational Background – BE (Computer Science), MBA

Professional Background – As an e-learning developer in World Bank, Cognizant, Sify, Xerox, Zoho

What were you like at school/college apart from studies? 

Introvert, bordering on being asocial

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors? Which author inspire you the most?

I read a lot. I read 1-2 books every week. Currently, I am reading, ‘The Yellow Wallpaper’. I do not have any favorite authors, though I can say I have read all the works of Kurt Vonnegut and Murakami. I am most inspired by Murakami.

When did you start writing?

At the age of six, I wrote a short story, which got me a first prize. I think it was about my Mum and how she got me a dog.

When did you decide to become a writer?

I think I was always writing, either in my mind or on the paper. It was in 2009 that I decided to get my first novella out, ‘Legal Bond’, which garnered quite some interest.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I aim to reach out to more readers, to share my views, my experiences.

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

I write whenever I find time. I write in the morning, while waiting for the curry to cook, while I eat my lunch at office, while watching a movie on TV. Whenever I find time and an idea strikes, I write.

What have you written?

My first novella was Legal Bond published by Pageturn Publishers (now closed). Then I self-published, ‘Entrapment in Aquamarine’. I wrote a short story, ‘Kalyani’, for the Commonwealth Award, which got shortlisted from India, last year.

What genre are your books?

Legal Bond and Entrapment in Aquamarine – Romance; Four Blocks Wide (including Kalyani) – Literary fiction/short story; Once Upon a Reunion – Literary Fiction

Can you describe your current book in few lines? What’s it about?

My current book, Once Upon a Reunion is about a woman, Nirmala and how her past doesn’t let her move on. How a painful break up forces her to yearn for her lost lover. It is a slice of life story, which I believe can be anybody’s story.

Give us an insight into your main character

The main characters are Nirmala, her husband, Sreenivas, Suresh – Nirmala’s ex. Others are part of the periphery.

Where did you get idea for this book?

I recently attended a school reunion. I happened to meet two exes who refused to speak with each other. I knew both their back stories and I decided to put it out with a lot of fictional elements. I was hoping that they would read my book and realize that it was not anybody’s fault that they got separated.

How much research did you do for this book?

A lot. Spoke to many of my classmates including the estranged lovers. 

Who is your favorite character in your book and why?

Nirmala, of course. Nirmala can be any woman we know. The complexities of relationships is what I have tried to capture. Why we do what we do? Why we react in a certain way and so on. There is a scene where Sreenivas hits Nirmala. This particular scene gave rise to many questions: how could she react like that? Why didn’t she hit him back? Many questions, many objections. The various layers that all of us wear, at all times forces us to hide our insecurities and hypocrisies. We are not uni-dimensional characters, we have multiple shades. I am trying to give a new point of view with my protagonist.

Who is your least favorite character and why?

I would say, Indraneel. I started by making him a yearning lover of Nirmala. But, this character took on a new shape. It was as if the evil in him just came out and forced me to add the layers on his persona.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

Hardest thing was to keep the emotions in check as I had to keep recollecting incidents from my school days, which led to a lot of depressing moments for me. I recollected several incidents which I had buried.

Release date

Feb 5, 2019

Tell us the response you have received for your book from readers.

I sold around 500 copies within a month and my KENP number is at 15,000 pages. The response has been good and I got very good feedback about my writing style. There were critical comments about the way the murder part was handled. I agree with the thriller element not being up to the reader’s expectation. I would just say that I had not intended to write a thriller. This is just Nirmala’s story and how she comes to terms with a loss.

What are you working on at the minute?

I am working on a full length novel.

What are your thoughts on writing a book series?

A book series is a great idea, provided there is continuity in the ideas across the books.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Keep reading, keep writing. Write daily.

Links for your book readers

• Blog: https://mavericwriter.wordpress.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authornithya/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/writernithya
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/writernithya/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nithyak/
• Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2JaC7FL
• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6320301.Nithya_K
• Book Link - Four Blocks Wide, Once Upon a Reunion

Meet Shweta Taneja - Originator of Anantya Tantrist Mystery Series

We would like to welcome Shweta Taneja on our platform. It is a proud moment for us to publish an interview with the best selling author. We have already read and published her book's reviews.

Links  - Cult of Chaos & The Matsya Curse

She has recently published 3rd part in the series, which is "The Rakta Queen: An Anantya Tantrist Mystery". So without wasting time let me give you brief of our conversion. 

What were you like at school/college apart from studies?

I was always the backbencher, the slacker, and the one who would make trouble for the teacher. In college, I was the one who bunked frequently and headed to see movies.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors? Which author inspire you the most?

Reading is essential to learning the art of writing. Each and every author I read has taught me something or inspired part of the way I write. I’m a voracious reader and pick up anything from fantasy, science fiction to romance or high literary or non-fiction. My favourite though, remain in the realms of fantasy: Masters like Stephen King, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, Douglas Adams, Ursula Le Guin and Octavia E Butler. I’ve learnt so much from each of these writers and keep learning everytime I pick their books up again.

When did you start writing?

As a career I began writing in early 2001 which means I’ve been writing for 18 years now (wow, did not realise that). My first article was a 1,000-word interview for a fashion magazine. At that time, I was wowed that I could write that much. Since then, I’ve written a 1,20,000 word novel and more than 300 articles.

When did you decide to become a writer?

It wasn’t a conscious decision, just something that I kept on falling into again and again. In school, at college, I happened to be the default writer and editor in all team assignments. When I graduated from college, I found myself with an assistant editor internship with Pearson Education publishing house. I didn’t know it was to become something that would consume my life and make a career for me. It just happened that way.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

I want to constantly challenge myself in the stories I create. I want to bring stories to life and to entertain my readers, make them laugh and celebrate the lives they lead.

Do you have a special time to write, or how is your day structured to accommodate your writing?

My week’s usually structured around my writing, if I’m in the middle of a novel or a short story deadline. I divide a novel into chapters and write one chapter a week. There might be days that I can slack off in a week (which I happily do), but if I haven’t finished the chapter, my weekend turns into a working one.

This schedule works well as I can take breaks during the day if I want go to a lecture or generally twaddle about.

Can you share books you have written/publish till now?

Novels

• Fantasy > The Rakta Queen, an Anantya Tantrist mystery (YA-adults, HarperCollins India, 2018)
• Fantasy > The Matsya Curse, an Anantya Tantrist mystery (YA-adults, HarperCollins India, 2017)
• Mystery > How to Steal a Ghost @ Manipal (YA, Juggernaut Books, 2016)
• Fantasy > Cult of Chaos, an Anantya Tantrist mystery (YA-adults, Harper Collins India, 2014)
• Mystery > Ghost Hunters of Kurseong (tweens, Hachette India, 2013)

Graphic Novels

• Mythology > Krishna: Defender of Dharma (graphic novel, Campfire India, 2013)
• Noir Mythology > The Skull Rosary (graphic novel, Holy Cow Entertainment, 2012)

Short Stories./Comics

• Fantasy > Granny Garam's Kitty Party: Part of Magical Women, an upcoming anthology by Hachette India.
• Comic > My Zombie Babe: Part of Necrobaba, an upcoming anthology of comic shorts by SyenaGiri.
• Science fiction > Bhaisaab’s Bespoke Brides Boutique: Part of India 2049, an upcoming anthology by Mithila Review.
• Fantasy > The Daughter That Bleeds: Part of The Best Asian Speculative Fiction (2018), an anthology by Kitaab, Singapore. The story won the Editor’s Choice Award and has been translated into French, Dutch and Romanian.
• Comic > Obsolete Baby: Part of Ground Zero Fourth Volume by MetaDesiComics (2018).
• Comic > It’s a dog’s death: Holy Cow Entertainment (2012)
• Mystery > Terror Strikes back: Children’s anthology Celebrate! Holi (2013) released by Hachette India.

Frankly speaking, we have published more than 80 author's interview. And your's is a longest list of published work. It is indeed an awesome journey. Can you tell us about awards / recognition that you have received?

• Invited Talk on ‘Asian speculative fiction trends’ at FedCon, Germany (2019)
• Editor’s Choice Award in Asia for short story The Daughter That Bleeds (2018)
• Invited Talk on ‘Rise of Indian Fantasy’ at Eurocon (2018)
• Writing Fellow with British Council and Charles Wallace India Trust (2016)
• Invited Talk on ‘Trends in Indian Comics’ at Cartoon Museum, London (2016)
• Krishna Defender of Dharma is part of Must-Read List in government schools (since 2015)
• Best Writer Award nomination at ComicCon India for The Skull Rosary (2013)

What genre are your books?

So far I’ve tried speculative fiction (urban fantasy, science fiction), mythology, mystery for adults, young adults and children.

Can you describe your current book in few lines? What’s it about?

The Rakta Queen, a third adventure in Anantya Tantrist Mystery series, is a tantrik thriller based in Delhi and Banaras. At its helm is 23-year-old Anantya Tantrist, a tantrik detective who solves supernatural crime.

The Rakta Queen starts when a tantrik is brutally murdered by his chandaali slave. The same night, a group of university students lose their minds and perform an orchestrated orgy in front of the Vidhan Sabha metro station. To get to the truth, Anantya Tantrist, who is the unofficial consultant with the Central Bureau of Investigation, must navigate her way past murderous sorcerers, deadly chandaalis, an underground betting scam run by jinns, and a renegade aghori teacher.

Give us an insight into your main character(s)

Anantya Tantrist is 23 years old, a tantric detective by profession, living an independent, single life in Delhi. She takes on supernatural crime cases and solves them using mantras, potions, sass and magic. She’s a colourful, adventurous, reckless, expletive-spewing, beedi-smoking character who roams the streets of Delhi at night, dealing with whatever may come her way, human or not-so-human. Needless to say, she’s quite fun to be with J

Where did you get idea for this book?

The Rakta Queen’s sketch has been with me since I began the series. Book 1 of the series, Cult Of Chaos, was about Anantya facing her father’s legacy, while The Rakta Queen is about her facing her mother’s legacy. The ideas for specific scenes and the wacky plot it became came to be in bits and pieces through newspapers (a perennial source of inspiration), life and neighbours.

How much research did you do for this book?

It took me a year of research to inhabit Anantya’s world with tantrics, supernatural creatures and paranormal spirits, which are taken from Indian myths, folklores, oral stories, and songs. Creatures like dasyus, rakshasas, daityas, danavas, kiratas, etc are all taken from mythologies or local folklore and embedded into the world. This playing with characters and species from Indian myth and folk ecosystem, layering them with our modern world and trying to see what kind of a conflict arises between humans and others, is something that was a creative spark for Anantya Tantrist series.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

After writing two books in the genre, when it came to The Rakta Queen, though I knew the world and the character much better, it was a challenge to explore the world in a way that hadn’t been done before. Bringing in something new, from a new perspective, though you’re with the same old characters and the world, can be quite a niggle.

What was the hardest however was to let Anantya and her world go. Though I’m writing Anantya’s stories in short story and comic format as I give this interview, I won’t be working on a new novel. Not sometime soon, anyhow. I think that was really hard for me to do. To move on. The emptiness almost feels like there’s been a breakup. You might have new relationships, but it’ll never be the same as your last one.

Release date. 

2018 November

What are you working on at the minute?

I’ve started a new novel that could turn into a series. It’s a science-fiction novel for young adults. I’ve also recently finished a novel for kids, which is now trying to find a publisher. Other than this, I’m working on a few short stories in the science fiction genre.

What are your thoughts on writing a book series?

After spending four years of my life in one world, I can say it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. You need to be sure that the world and the characters they inhabit will entertain you, will be able to sustain you creatively and emotionally for a few years. Writing series is not easy but it’s rewarding as with each work, the world you’ve created becomes deeper and richer.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

My advice would be not to think about writing or publishing or whether you’ll find readers or whether you’ll make any money or if you’re wasting your life or if the book will sell. Don’t buy a software or take too many classes about writing.

Just write. Everyday. A little bit of the book you want to write. Put it down into a blank document. Type it. Note it down. That’s how books happen. You write a sentence, which follows a sentence, becomes a paragraph, a scene, a chapter and before you know it, your first draft is over with.

Author bio

Shweta Taneja is a bestselling speculative fiction author from India. With seven published novels, she is a leading voice in feminist science fiction and fantasy, most known for her series, Anantya Tantrist Mysteries, which will be soon adapted to the big screen. Her short story, The Daughter That Bleeds has been awarded the Editor's Choice Award and is published in the recently released anthology The Best Asian Speculative Fiction 2018. It has also been translated and published in SF magazines in Romanian, French and Dutch.
She’s a Charles Wallace fellow and her graphic novel Krishna Defender of Dharma in a Must-Read for government schools in India. Shweta prolifically voices her passion for Indian, feminist and diverse science fiction and fantasy. She has given talks at Cartoon Museum London, Eurocon 2018 and will be talking about SFF in the upcoming FedCon 2019 in Germany. Find her most places online with her handle @shwetawrites