Preethi Venugopala's Blog, page 34
October 12, 2015
Newbie Corner: Prakash Guru
Today On 'Newbie Corner' we have the budding author Prakash Guru.
Welcome to 'Newbie Corner' Prakash.
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I am Prakash Guru from Odisha. My life has been a roller coaster ride till now, basically I have a masters degree in pharmacy, it happens that I am a state gold medalist in it but career in pharmacy is a bit struggling, so changing the lanes I started preparing for banking and luckily cracked the probationary officer post and is all set to work from 28th September as an assistant manager (on probation) in Canara Bank (Two roads diverged by in the woods and I, I took the one less travelled by..). I am also a district level cricketer I used open the batting; I have won the tag of “special cricketer” in intra-sports meet from My Bachelor’s Degree College. Till now I have won eleven trophies in various sports like table tennis, volleyball, carom and other activities like essay, quiz etc.
My love for English started because of my teacher late Dillip sir, he was not only an awesome teacher but also an awesome human being. My writing started as a way of my catharsis; mentored by Mr. Manas Nayak (Mr. Bay leaf) I started representing my emotions through words. Accidentally, I was introduced to Mr. Sachin Shresta founder Shades Publications which then was an online magazine by my younger brother; together we struggled but yet achieved acme through our first book Love stories around us, the next book Friendship-bonds beyond time is set to release on 23rdSeptember, 2015 and our next ventures are Colors-Different Shades of life and The painted life. Another book of mine which is set to release soon is Men-An anthology.
What is your favorite genre in writing?
My favorite genre would be life and love. But I don’t want to write everyday love stories, but stories with twists or stories which are different and then life is the greatest teacher; I believe every fictional story has a touch of non-fiction in it which life teaches the writer.
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
People who inspire me are my father, mother, Manas Nayak, Pamela Bose, Sachin Shresta, Jayantlal Guru, Asha Rajhans, Sandhya Guru, Bikash Guru and other family members and my small group of friends Sanjit Gharai, Alok Satpathy, Dibyajyoti Behera, Apurba Ranjan and Pitabash Nayak. Last but not the least movies and episodes inspire me a lot and I am serious addict of them.
It happens that my father is a part time writer too, he writes in odia and gets invited to various poetry reciting functions. So I think, this creativity has been inherited by me. So I dedicate my creative growth to my father.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
I am definitely a newbie, a writer with hopes and dreams to make a mark, a writer who is ready to accept the harshest of criticism and rise with improvement. My writing style includes inserting excerpts into my story; these excerpts are generally about the teachings that I have learned from life and people.
Yes I definitely start with a plot but sometimes the plot changes as my writing proceeds.
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
Nothing special, I am not from a very rich family or something neither have I ever fanaticized in my minds about a particular writing place, till date I have a small table which serves the purpose.
The scheduled time when I write is the time when the world gets into slumber, because I believe when you sit alone in the dark and the busy world goes to slumber, you get the best thoughts because then only in the somber you hear your heart beat and your hands scribble the rantings of it.
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
I don’t have favorite authors rather I have favorite books. My favorite book till today is the man booker prize winner, 2014 “The narrow road to the deep north”, by Richard Flanagan.
The genre that I like reading the most is philosophical, novels which describe the raw and harsh emotions of life which describes the truth and true emotions and doesn’t sound bookish.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
10 years is a long time and as of now I haven’t planned anything. Presently, I want to concentrate on my job, passion for writing and keep breathing. I am a person who loves to live in the present and make use of it but yes definitely I want at least 5 solo novels of mine in 10 years and hundreds of short stories published in different anthologies, but the most important thing is to take Shades Publications to new heights and to make it a recognized and reputed publishing house.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
I haven’t given much thought about this or perhaps being a newbie I haven’t come across themes that would show my weakness in any particular genre.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
Marketing is a tool that is needed for everything to sustain. Now I am not Robin Sharma, Salman Rushdie, Richard Flanagan or any other established writers that needs little marketing. I haven’t yet become a reader’s favorite writer/author so as a newbie to get reorganized and to bring my book to the limelight marketing is extremely essential and need of the hour.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
Different stories convey different emotions and thus different messages. But what I want my reader’s feel is that when they read my stories, smiling silently they realize they too have gone through such a phase, all in all I can describe it as a strong emotional connect that they should have with my stories.
Buy it HERE
Buy it HERE
Thank You Prakash for the interesting answers. Wishing you a very bright future in writing.
Buy his books folks and encourage this promising newbie.
Until next post,
Much Love,
Welcome to 'Newbie Corner' Prakash.
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I am Prakash Guru from Odisha. My life has been a roller coaster ride till now, basically I have a masters degree in pharmacy, it happens that I am a state gold medalist in it but career in pharmacy is a bit struggling, so changing the lanes I started preparing for banking and luckily cracked the probationary officer post and is all set to work from 28th September as an assistant manager (on probation) in Canara Bank (Two roads diverged by in the woods and I, I took the one less travelled by..). I am also a district level cricketer I used open the batting; I have won the tag of “special cricketer” in intra-sports meet from My Bachelor’s Degree College. Till now I have won eleven trophies in various sports like table tennis, volleyball, carom and other activities like essay, quiz etc.
My love for English started because of my teacher late Dillip sir, he was not only an awesome teacher but also an awesome human being. My writing started as a way of my catharsis; mentored by Mr. Manas Nayak (Mr. Bay leaf) I started representing my emotions through words. Accidentally, I was introduced to Mr. Sachin Shresta founder Shades Publications which then was an online magazine by my younger brother; together we struggled but yet achieved acme through our first book Love stories around us, the next book Friendship-bonds beyond time is set to release on 23rdSeptember, 2015 and our next ventures are Colors-Different Shades of life and The painted life. Another book of mine which is set to release soon is Men-An anthology.
What is your favorite genre in writing?
My favorite genre would be life and love. But I don’t want to write everyday love stories, but stories with twists or stories which are different and then life is the greatest teacher; I believe every fictional story has a touch of non-fiction in it which life teaches the writer.
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
People who inspire me are my father, mother, Manas Nayak, Pamela Bose, Sachin Shresta, Jayantlal Guru, Asha Rajhans, Sandhya Guru, Bikash Guru and other family members and my small group of friends Sanjit Gharai, Alok Satpathy, Dibyajyoti Behera, Apurba Ranjan and Pitabash Nayak. Last but not the least movies and episodes inspire me a lot and I am serious addict of them.
It happens that my father is a part time writer too, he writes in odia and gets invited to various poetry reciting functions. So I think, this creativity has been inherited by me. So I dedicate my creative growth to my father.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
I am definitely a newbie, a writer with hopes and dreams to make a mark, a writer who is ready to accept the harshest of criticism and rise with improvement. My writing style includes inserting excerpts into my story; these excerpts are generally about the teachings that I have learned from life and people.
Yes I definitely start with a plot but sometimes the plot changes as my writing proceeds.
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
Nothing special, I am not from a very rich family or something neither have I ever fanaticized in my minds about a particular writing place, till date I have a small table which serves the purpose.
The scheduled time when I write is the time when the world gets into slumber, because I believe when you sit alone in the dark and the busy world goes to slumber, you get the best thoughts because then only in the somber you hear your heart beat and your hands scribble the rantings of it.
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
I don’t have favorite authors rather I have favorite books. My favorite book till today is the man booker prize winner, 2014 “The narrow road to the deep north”, by Richard Flanagan.
The genre that I like reading the most is philosophical, novels which describe the raw and harsh emotions of life which describes the truth and true emotions and doesn’t sound bookish.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
10 years is a long time and as of now I haven’t planned anything. Presently, I want to concentrate on my job, passion for writing and keep breathing. I am a person who loves to live in the present and make use of it but yes definitely I want at least 5 solo novels of mine in 10 years and hundreds of short stories published in different anthologies, but the most important thing is to take Shades Publications to new heights and to make it a recognized and reputed publishing house.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
I haven’t given much thought about this or perhaps being a newbie I haven’t come across themes that would show my weakness in any particular genre.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
Marketing is a tool that is needed for everything to sustain. Now I am not Robin Sharma, Salman Rushdie, Richard Flanagan or any other established writers that needs little marketing. I haven’t yet become a reader’s favorite writer/author so as a newbie to get reorganized and to bring my book to the limelight marketing is extremely essential and need of the hour.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
Different stories convey different emotions and thus different messages. But what I want my reader’s feel is that when they read my stories, smiling silently they realize they too have gone through such a phase, all in all I can describe it as a strong emotional connect that they should have with my stories.
Buy it HERE
Buy it HEREThank You Prakash for the interesting answers. Wishing you a very bright future in writing.
Buy his books folks and encourage this promising newbie.
Until next post,
Much Love,
October 10, 2015
On Writing : Neil D'Silva
Today on 'On Writing', we have the Bestselling Novelist Neil DiSilva sharing with us his experience.With three published books to his credit, Neil D’Silva has become an identifiable name in the world of Indian literature. His first book, Maya’s New Husband, stayed on the Amazon India (Horror) Bestseller Ranks for nine months, reaching the coveted #1 position several times. His second book, The Evil Eye and the Charm, topped the Amazon India (Horror) charts as well. His third book is Bound In Love, which debuted at #1 on Amazon Hot New Releases the very next day of its release.
Let us find out more about him and his works through this pleasant chat.
Welcome to ‘On Writing’ Neil D’Silva.
You write horror fiction and you are prolific. Where do you draw your inspiration from?
It is both correct and incorrect to say I write horror fiction. I would like to think I write on human relationships. The core of all my stories is about how people interact and react to each other. The other element, i.e. horror, comes in later if the story so demands. Hence, I need to only seek inspiration from the world around me. Being a keen observer, I closely observe how people behave with each other. Subconsciously, everything that I observe and experience becomes a part of my stories.
How different is Bound In Love from Maya’s New Husband? Do tell us about your books.
Maya’s New Husband was my debut. It is the story of a woman named Maya who finds herself trapped in a marriage with a person who has a very disturbing other side. The story is crime-horror and has elements of Indian ritual practices and cannibalism. Bound In Love is my third book. It is a short-story collection of different sides of human relationships. I have covered some highly controversial topics such as incest, sex reassignment, pedophilia, extramarital relationships, BDSM, etc. in this book. I have written another book as well, my second actually, which is titled The Evil Eye and The Charm. This was also a short-story collection based on the Indian lemon-chili superstitions. All my books belong to different genres, but I am surprised at how all have been received well by my readers.
Do you research before setting out to write your book?
I had to do quite a bit of research for Maya’s New Husband. The story has certain elements that needed a sensitive approach, and hence it was necessary to get the facts in order. The Internet has made it quite easy to conduct secondhand research, but I also try to get some firsthand accounts where possible.
What according to you is the most difficult scene to write?
According to me, the most difficult scenes to write are the in-between scenes. When I start writing, I have the main turning points of the story in mind. I know the scenes were the major twists will happen. However, it is necessary to go seamlessly from one point to another, and this should be interesting as well. These in-between parts, according to me, are a good test for an author’s worth. It is important not to bore away the readers during these portions. I use them constructively though. When there’s no major plot marker happening, I use my words to flesh out the characters a bit more. It helps establish the story better.
Do you edit your own books or use the services of a professional editor? How important do you think editing is for any book?
I am friends with a few writers who act as each other’s beta-readers and editors. Along with Varun Prabhu, I run the editing service Pen Paper Coffee as well. So, usually Varun reads my work, and so do some other people including our mutual writer-friend Aindrila Roy and my wife Anita. We provide substantive comments to each other for all our books. As far as our editing needs are concerned, we trust each other more than any outside service, and it has paid off richly so far.
Which form of fiction writing comes easily to you? Short stories or novels? Do explain why.
I enjoy writing both though I write short stories more for the simple reason that they are less time-consuming. There’s also the fact that I am usually inundated with ideas. Sometimes it happens that I get a dream and I feel, “Oh, this would make a fantastic short story!” and I stop whatever else I am doing and write that one. Writing novels is much more satisfying, though. It is like building a land of your own and inviting readers to visit. However, it is strenuous to write them. You need to keep track of a lot of things. In conclusion — writing short stories is more fun but less satisfying, whereas writing novels is more work but several times more satisfying.
You have a regular job as a teacher which in itself is a very demanding job. When do you find time to write?
I have been able to streamline my routine this year. I teach for 4 hours in the afternoon each day, and the mornings and evenings are spent with my writing-related work. I go for a walk in the mornings when I think over what I plan to write that day, which could be just a scene or two. There are also editing projects through Pen Paper Coffee that I devote a few hours in the mornings for.
Do you have any specific rituals or superstitions associated with your writing process?
I have begun to believe that one should not speak much about their writing until they are ready to publish. There’s a reason for that too — if the word gets out much, I tend to lose interest. With my forthcoming projects, the shock value of the announcements is going to be a major part of my promotional endeavors. Apart from that, there are no rituals or superstitions. I write when I can.
Which part in the whole process of creation of a book do you dislike the most? Writing, Editing, Querying, Publishing or Marketing? Why?
That should be the querying part, because I haven’t tried that out yet. Since my books have been self-published so far, I haven’t had the “pleasure” of querying. Even for Maya’s New Husband, I was approached with a traditional publishing offer, so I did not have to move around much. I have received an offer for Bound In Love as well, but I am yet contemplating on the pros and cons of the offer.
Do you read your reviews? How important do you think a review is for the success of a book?
I read each and every review with the greatest amount of patience, and I read them over and over again. I have received more than a hundred extremely detailed reviews for Maya’s New Husband and a large number of blog reviews and mentions. I have bookmarked all of them and I go through them whenever I get time. Almost all of the reviews are positive, but there are those stray sentences which speak on how things can be improved. Those matter a lot. A writer must pay heed to what is working and what is not. It helps the next book become a better one.
Which international author is your idol? Which work of his would you recommend to your readers?
Along my reading life, I have picked up several inspirations from a lot of people. However, if we speak only for the present time, I have two major inspirations — Stephen King and Edgar Allan Poe. I admire both of them for different reasons. I love King for the way he creates an environment with his words, which appeals to all the human senses. That’s an important hallmark of horror writing. And I admire Edgar Allan Poe for the magic he creates, for his sheer literary intellect. Not a single word is ever out of place in his writing. I’d make King’s Gerald’s Game and Poe’s The Fall of Usher, The Telltale Heart, The Pit and the Pendulum and The Raven compulsory reading for all writers of horror.
What are the three tips you have for readers of this interview who are aspiring writers?
1) Edit your works. A lot. The largest part of a writer’s job begins after writing the words ‘The End’. Read your works out aloud. That helps in picking out the small mistakes and inconsistencies that might escape you otherwise.
2) Read. It is sad to see how many writers of today proclaim — at times with pride — that they don’t read. It just doesn’t work that way. If you don’t read, you might be able to tell a good story but without the linguistic structure to back it up. That way, you might be able to attract a certain class of readers for a short time, but your work won’t have the lasting quality.
3) Keep a marketing strategy in place. It is important to get your book read by as many people as possible, and that’s why you need to attract attention. Every book needs to be marketed differently. Also remember, to build your own personal reputation along the way, for every author is a brand with an identity of his/her own. You need to discover yours and then put it forward for the world to see.
Wonderful! Thank you Neil for excellent tips and the interesting answers. Wishing you the very best in all your future endeavors.
Amazon.in Book Links:Maya’s New Husband The Evil Eye and The CharmBound InLove
All books are also available on Amazon.com.
Read more about Neil D’Silva, and his short stories, on his website
So buy his books, folks.
Until Next post
Much Love,
Let us find out more about him and his works through this pleasant chat.
Welcome to ‘On Writing’ Neil D’Silva.
You write horror fiction and you are prolific. Where do you draw your inspiration from?
It is both correct and incorrect to say I write horror fiction. I would like to think I write on human relationships. The core of all my stories is about how people interact and react to each other. The other element, i.e. horror, comes in later if the story so demands. Hence, I need to only seek inspiration from the world around me. Being a keen observer, I closely observe how people behave with each other. Subconsciously, everything that I observe and experience becomes a part of my stories.
How different is Bound In Love from Maya’s New Husband? Do tell us about your books.
Maya’s New Husband was my debut. It is the story of a woman named Maya who finds herself trapped in a marriage with a person who has a very disturbing other side. The story is crime-horror and has elements of Indian ritual practices and cannibalism. Bound In Love is my third book. It is a short-story collection of different sides of human relationships. I have covered some highly controversial topics such as incest, sex reassignment, pedophilia, extramarital relationships, BDSM, etc. in this book. I have written another book as well, my second actually, which is titled The Evil Eye and The Charm. This was also a short-story collection based on the Indian lemon-chili superstitions. All my books belong to different genres, but I am surprised at how all have been received well by my readers.
Do you research before setting out to write your book?
I had to do quite a bit of research for Maya’s New Husband. The story has certain elements that needed a sensitive approach, and hence it was necessary to get the facts in order. The Internet has made it quite easy to conduct secondhand research, but I also try to get some firsthand accounts where possible.
What according to you is the most difficult scene to write?
According to me, the most difficult scenes to write are the in-between scenes. When I start writing, I have the main turning points of the story in mind. I know the scenes were the major twists will happen. However, it is necessary to go seamlessly from one point to another, and this should be interesting as well. These in-between parts, according to me, are a good test for an author’s worth. It is important not to bore away the readers during these portions. I use them constructively though. When there’s no major plot marker happening, I use my words to flesh out the characters a bit more. It helps establish the story better.
Do you edit your own books or use the services of a professional editor? How important do you think editing is for any book?
I am friends with a few writers who act as each other’s beta-readers and editors. Along with Varun Prabhu, I run the editing service Pen Paper Coffee as well. So, usually Varun reads my work, and so do some other people including our mutual writer-friend Aindrila Roy and my wife Anita. We provide substantive comments to each other for all our books. As far as our editing needs are concerned, we trust each other more than any outside service, and it has paid off richly so far.
Which form of fiction writing comes easily to you? Short stories or novels? Do explain why.
I enjoy writing both though I write short stories more for the simple reason that they are less time-consuming. There’s also the fact that I am usually inundated with ideas. Sometimes it happens that I get a dream and I feel, “Oh, this would make a fantastic short story!” and I stop whatever else I am doing and write that one. Writing novels is much more satisfying, though. It is like building a land of your own and inviting readers to visit. However, it is strenuous to write them. You need to keep track of a lot of things. In conclusion — writing short stories is more fun but less satisfying, whereas writing novels is more work but several times more satisfying.
You have a regular job as a teacher which in itself is a very demanding job. When do you find time to write?
I have been able to streamline my routine this year. I teach for 4 hours in the afternoon each day, and the mornings and evenings are spent with my writing-related work. I go for a walk in the mornings when I think over what I plan to write that day, which could be just a scene or two. There are also editing projects through Pen Paper Coffee that I devote a few hours in the mornings for.
Do you have any specific rituals or superstitions associated with your writing process?
I have begun to believe that one should not speak much about their writing until they are ready to publish. There’s a reason for that too — if the word gets out much, I tend to lose interest. With my forthcoming projects, the shock value of the announcements is going to be a major part of my promotional endeavors. Apart from that, there are no rituals or superstitions. I write when I can.
Which part in the whole process of creation of a book do you dislike the most? Writing, Editing, Querying, Publishing or Marketing? Why?
That should be the querying part, because I haven’t tried that out yet. Since my books have been self-published so far, I haven’t had the “pleasure” of querying. Even for Maya’s New Husband, I was approached with a traditional publishing offer, so I did not have to move around much. I have received an offer for Bound In Love as well, but I am yet contemplating on the pros and cons of the offer.
Do you read your reviews? How important do you think a review is for the success of a book?
I read each and every review with the greatest amount of patience, and I read them over and over again. I have received more than a hundred extremely detailed reviews for Maya’s New Husband and a large number of blog reviews and mentions. I have bookmarked all of them and I go through them whenever I get time. Almost all of the reviews are positive, but there are those stray sentences which speak on how things can be improved. Those matter a lot. A writer must pay heed to what is working and what is not. It helps the next book become a better one.
Which international author is your idol? Which work of his would you recommend to your readers?
Along my reading life, I have picked up several inspirations from a lot of people. However, if we speak only for the present time, I have two major inspirations — Stephen King and Edgar Allan Poe. I admire both of them for different reasons. I love King for the way he creates an environment with his words, which appeals to all the human senses. That’s an important hallmark of horror writing. And I admire Edgar Allan Poe for the magic he creates, for his sheer literary intellect. Not a single word is ever out of place in his writing. I’d make King’s Gerald’s Game and Poe’s The Fall of Usher, The Telltale Heart, The Pit and the Pendulum and The Raven compulsory reading for all writers of horror.
What are the three tips you have for readers of this interview who are aspiring writers?
1) Edit your works. A lot. The largest part of a writer’s job begins after writing the words ‘The End’. Read your works out aloud. That helps in picking out the small mistakes and inconsistencies that might escape you otherwise.
2) Read. It is sad to see how many writers of today proclaim — at times with pride — that they don’t read. It just doesn’t work that way. If you don’t read, you might be able to tell a good story but without the linguistic structure to back it up. That way, you might be able to attract a certain class of readers for a short time, but your work won’t have the lasting quality.
3) Keep a marketing strategy in place. It is important to get your book read by as many people as possible, and that’s why you need to attract attention. Every book needs to be marketed differently. Also remember, to build your own personal reputation along the way, for every author is a brand with an identity of his/her own. You need to discover yours and then put it forward for the world to see.
Wonderful! Thank you Neil for excellent tips and the interesting answers. Wishing you the very best in all your future endeavors.
Amazon.in Book Links:Maya’s New Husband The Evil Eye and The CharmBound InLove All books are also available on Amazon.com.
Read more about Neil D’Silva, and his short stories, on his website
So buy his books, folks.
Until Next post
Much Love,
October 9, 2015
On Writing: British author John Hennessy
John Hennessy is a British author of paranormal fantasy horror for YA, psychological horror and murder mysteries, plus his own unique take on vampire lore. He has also written ghost stories and delved into high epic fantasy with a hint of romance. A kung fu addict; he teaches martial arts full-time but writes at all other times, working on four series:- Dark Winter, Haunted Minds, Stormling and A Tale of Vampires.
He boasts an eclectic and diverse reading taste, books in his collection ranging from JRR Tolkien, George Orwell, J Sheridan le Fanu, JK Rowling, Stephen King, Anne Rice and Neil Gaiman.
Follow him: Twitter Goodreads Blog
Welcome to ‘On Writing’, John Hennessy. Tell us a little about yourself. How did your journey as an author begin?
My first book was a non-fiction one about martial arts as I had a lot of notes, but no collective volume of my theories or practical application of the techniques. I was made redundant from my job in marketing for an IT company, in the 2009 recession; I left them after ten years. I increased my student numbers in martial arts training, and also began writing in earnest. I found I wanted to write something completely different to martial arts, after the book on martial arts was published in 2011. I had already begun work on my epic fantasy Stormling by then and it was released in 2014.
Do people treat you differently when they know that you are an author, that too, a bestselling author?
I think most people are surprised that I don’t just have one book out, but several. They see now how serious I take the writing journey. Treating me differently? I’m not so sure. I am a normal, down to earth person. I just like to tell some stories and hope people will enjoy them.
You write paranormal fantasy horror for YA, psychological horror and murder mysteries, plus your own unique vampire lore. Where do you get your ideas from?
I can draw inspiration from anywhere. But I think a lot of my writing, whilst being works of fiction in themselves, has elements based on things that happened to me or people I knew. I think that makes the tales, even the fantasy ones, more realistic to the reader.
I know it is a wrong question to ask an author, but which book among your books is your favourite?
That is a difficult question. Probably the second in my paranormal horror series Dark Winter: Crescent Moon. I’m immensely proud of that book. I think perhaps because over 400 pages I still managed to keep the narrative tight and the story engaging. I am currently editing the last book in the series.
Who are the authors that you look up to for inspiration?
There’s so many, but Stephen King, Anne Rice and JRR Tolkien would be top of the list.
Click here to buy
You are a prolific writer. But do you get affected by writer’s block? If yes, how do you deal with it?
So far, I haven’t experienced writers block. If I have a problem with a scene, or I believe the dialogue or narrative is not working, I will leave it and come back to it later. The solution often provides itself after a few hours break.
What is your favorite time for writing? Do you have any particular habits or needs when you sit down to write? Coffee, chocolates, wine?
Coffee and tea – strong varieties, first thing in the morning. As the day wears on, I hope to have hit my word count or completed an important scene or chapter. Then I can relax at night. I try to write first thing in the morning. Between 6 and 9am, I can write at about 1000 words an hour, sometimes faster.
According to your Goodreads author profile, you are a kung fu addict and teach martial arts full-time. It says you love reading the horror genre in literature more. Is the adrenaline rush that both of these provide the reason why you love them both?
That’s a good question. I do like dramatic things; it keeps me on the edge, where I need to be. Horror can slow burn or hit you in the face with a shock, much like martial arts.Both are awesome.
Click here to buy
You opted to self-publish on Kindle and you are a very popular indie author. What advice do you have for those who are planning to go the self-publishing route?
Be prepared for the long haul. The days of just uploading a book and expecting to be noticed are long gone. Be prepared to read a lot of books, as well as write them. Be kind and supportive to others. If you are asked to read a book and it doesn’t work for you, criticize in private, never in public. Build a network, a team who will support you, whilst respecting that they may not always reciprocate your input. Be open to traditional publishing – I still am!
What are the three tips you have for readers of this interview who are aspiring writers?
1) Pursue your writing project to the end. Don’t give up, get disheartened, or envious of other writers. You have nothing until you have your book completed.2) Remember why you are writing in the first place. It is hard at times, fitting it in around work and family commitments. If it ever stops being fun, you might have to do something else with your time.3) Visualise the completed book. Think about the feedback you would like to receive. Have the goal in front of you. Write it down and place it next to your computer, in your bedroom, on the front door, in your car. Stay true to the task and it will be realised.
Click here to buy
Thank you John. It was wonderful having you over here!
Thank you for hosting me on your blog, Preethi!
Check out his books folks! It will be a treat, I am sure, if you love the thrills of paranormal mysteries, fantasies and Vampires!
That is all for now.Until next post,
Much love,
He boasts an eclectic and diverse reading taste, books in his collection ranging from JRR Tolkien, George Orwell, J Sheridan le Fanu, JK Rowling, Stephen King, Anne Rice and Neil Gaiman.
Follow him: Twitter Goodreads Blog
Welcome to ‘On Writing’, John Hennessy. Tell us a little about yourself. How did your journey as an author begin?
My first book was a non-fiction one about martial arts as I had a lot of notes, but no collective volume of my theories or practical application of the techniques. I was made redundant from my job in marketing for an IT company, in the 2009 recession; I left them after ten years. I increased my student numbers in martial arts training, and also began writing in earnest. I found I wanted to write something completely different to martial arts, after the book on martial arts was published in 2011. I had already begun work on my epic fantasy Stormling by then and it was released in 2014.
Do people treat you differently when they know that you are an author, that too, a bestselling author?
I think most people are surprised that I don’t just have one book out, but several. They see now how serious I take the writing journey. Treating me differently? I’m not so sure. I am a normal, down to earth person. I just like to tell some stories and hope people will enjoy them.
You write paranormal fantasy horror for YA, psychological horror and murder mysteries, plus your own unique vampire lore. Where do you get your ideas from?
I can draw inspiration from anywhere. But I think a lot of my writing, whilst being works of fiction in themselves, has elements based on things that happened to me or people I knew. I think that makes the tales, even the fantasy ones, more realistic to the reader.
I know it is a wrong question to ask an author, but which book among your books is your favourite?
That is a difficult question. Probably the second in my paranormal horror series Dark Winter: Crescent Moon. I’m immensely proud of that book. I think perhaps because over 400 pages I still managed to keep the narrative tight and the story engaging. I am currently editing the last book in the series.
Who are the authors that you look up to for inspiration?
There’s so many, but Stephen King, Anne Rice and JRR Tolkien would be top of the list.
Click here to buy
You are a prolific writer. But do you get affected by writer’s block? If yes, how do you deal with it?
So far, I haven’t experienced writers block. If I have a problem with a scene, or I believe the dialogue or narrative is not working, I will leave it and come back to it later. The solution often provides itself after a few hours break.
What is your favorite time for writing? Do you have any particular habits or needs when you sit down to write? Coffee, chocolates, wine?
Coffee and tea – strong varieties, first thing in the morning. As the day wears on, I hope to have hit my word count or completed an important scene or chapter. Then I can relax at night. I try to write first thing in the morning. Between 6 and 9am, I can write at about 1000 words an hour, sometimes faster.
According to your Goodreads author profile, you are a kung fu addict and teach martial arts full-time. It says you love reading the horror genre in literature more. Is the adrenaline rush that both of these provide the reason why you love them both?
That’s a good question. I do like dramatic things; it keeps me on the edge, where I need to be. Horror can slow burn or hit you in the face with a shock, much like martial arts.Both are awesome.
Click here to buy
You opted to self-publish on Kindle and you are a very popular indie author. What advice do you have for those who are planning to go the self-publishing route?
Be prepared for the long haul. The days of just uploading a book and expecting to be noticed are long gone. Be prepared to read a lot of books, as well as write them. Be kind and supportive to others. If you are asked to read a book and it doesn’t work for you, criticize in private, never in public. Build a network, a team who will support you, whilst respecting that they may not always reciprocate your input. Be open to traditional publishing – I still am!
What are the three tips you have for readers of this interview who are aspiring writers?
1) Pursue your writing project to the end. Don’t give up, get disheartened, or envious of other writers. You have nothing until you have your book completed.2) Remember why you are writing in the first place. It is hard at times, fitting it in around work and family commitments. If it ever stops being fun, you might have to do something else with your time.3) Visualise the completed book. Think about the feedback you would like to receive. Have the goal in front of you. Write it down and place it next to your computer, in your bedroom, on the front door, in your car. Stay true to the task and it will be realised.
Click here to buy
Thank you John. It was wonderful having you over here!
Thank you for hosting me on your blog, Preethi!
Check out his books folks! It will be a treat, I am sure, if you love the thrills of paranormal mysteries, fantasies and Vampires!
That is all for now.Until next post,
Much love,
October 8, 2015
Grab the new LG Nexus 5X
Now to talk about the exciting prospects that my three favourite features of the new LG Nexus 5X offers.
Image Source1. Camera that captures more light: What happens at most times is that the lighting of a particular scene or set up is not enough and the phone camera gives a tone down version of the scene before your eyes. If the camera is able to capture more light, the pictures appear clear and more natural than when we use flash which makes everything turn murky. The camera in Nexus 5X shines in low-light conditions. Its larger 1.55μm pixels capture more light even in the dimmest conditions to produce stunning details and sharp images.
2. Quicker and Secure with new Nexus imprint Nexus is quicker and more secure with a fingerprint sensor. Placed on the back of your device to complement the way you naturally hold it, Nexus Imprint will turn on your screen with one touch, unlock your apps quickly and easily, and let you breeze through checkout lines. And, by incorporating measurements each time you use it, Nexus Imprint gets smarter with every touch.This is one feature that adds to the value of it. If you leave it anywhere, the feature makes it impossible for anyone to access it unless they know the trick to hack into it using some extreme steps.
3. USB type Charger: The USB Type-C charger is reversible, which means no more guessing which way is up. And it's fast—get almost four hours of use after only ten minutes of charging. Isn’t that one feature to die for? Four hours use with just ten minutes of charging and that too without the hassles of guessing which side of the charger goes up? Put it for charging while you rush into the shower and you are ready to use it for the next four hours!
These three features make it an enviable possession for the price that it is being offered at. And there is also the extra $50 dollar in Google play credit if you order before 25th October!
Check out the other specifications.
Image SourceSo what are you waiting for guys? Go grab the chance while the stock lasts.
“I am participating in the#ChampIsBack activity at BlogAdda.“
LG Nexus 5X is back!
Heard some exciting news today! The LG Nexus 5X is back with exciting new features. Take a look at the features that this affordable phone offers.
Image Source
1. Compact and Lightweight : Capturing the soul of the Nexus family, the 5X offers top-line performance in a compact, lightweight device that's ready to go anywhere, anytime. Beneath the 5.2-inch display is a hexa-core Snapdragon 808 processor for world-class speed at an affordable price.
2. Camera captures more light: The best all-around camera ever put into a Nexus shines in low-light conditions. Its larger 1.55μm pixels capture more light even in the dimmest conditions to produce stunning details and sharp images. With a faster Google Camera app, you'll never miss a moment, and with the smart Google Photos app, your memories are easy to relive and always at your fingertips.
3. Organize photos in a better way: Google Photos is a new way to store, search, and share all your photos and videos. Store an unlimited amount of photos and videos at high quality for free, and access them anywhere. Automatically organized and searchable by the people, places, and things in them, your memories are always easy to find and share.
4. Quicker and Secure with new Nexus imprint: Nexus is quicker and more secure with a fingerprint sensor. Placed on the back of your device to complement the way you naturally hold it, Nexus Imprint will turn on your screen with one touch, unlock your apps quickly and easily, and let you breeze through checkout lines. And, by incorporating measurements each time you use it, Nexus Imprint gets smarter with every touch.
5. USB type Charger: The USB Type-C charger is reversible, which means no more guessing which way is up. And it's fast—get almost four hours of use after only ten minutes of charging.
6. Android 6.0 Marshmallow: Built to get the best out of the world's most popular OS, Nexus is the ultimate Android experience. You're always among the first to receive software and security updates. And you'll have the freshest, fastest version—Android 6.0 Marshmallow—working for you right out of the box.
(All the above details are as specified on the site. Check it for yourself here )
Isn’t that all exciting? Now, the surprises don’t end there. The company is offering something more every time you purchase the cool phone.
Perks for your purchase! · Get $50 in Google Play credit when you pre-order by 10/25.6· 90 days of Google Play Music for free.
Do you need another reason to buy this phone?
For me the three exciting new features are:
a) Camera that captures more light: I am a blogger and I value the photos that I can take using my phone. It helps me keep my blog posts prettier and more appealing to the readers. Also, as they say ‘a picture says it better’. The Rear camera is 12.3 MP2; 1.55 μm; f/2.0 and the front camera is 5 MP!
b) Quicker and Secure with new Nexus imprint: I have a six year old who likes to download all sorts of angry birds, Disney games apps on my phone cluttering my phone with apps and also deletes my photos accidently. What better way than to find a phone that opens only for me? Imprint technology is exciting at such low prices.
c) USB type Charger: This is the oldest joke and always makes me lose my patience. ‘Which way is up?’ is the most infuriating question. A reversible charger takes away all the frustration for a person like me.
So guys, are you ready to check out this beauty?
“I am participating in the#ChampIsBack activity at BlogAdda.“
Image Source1. Compact and Lightweight : Capturing the soul of the Nexus family, the 5X offers top-line performance in a compact, lightweight device that's ready to go anywhere, anytime. Beneath the 5.2-inch display is a hexa-core Snapdragon 808 processor for world-class speed at an affordable price.
2. Camera captures more light: The best all-around camera ever put into a Nexus shines in low-light conditions. Its larger 1.55μm pixels capture more light even in the dimmest conditions to produce stunning details and sharp images. With a faster Google Camera app, you'll never miss a moment, and with the smart Google Photos app, your memories are easy to relive and always at your fingertips.
3. Organize photos in a better way: Google Photos is a new way to store, search, and share all your photos and videos. Store an unlimited amount of photos and videos at high quality for free, and access them anywhere. Automatically organized and searchable by the people, places, and things in them, your memories are always easy to find and share.
4. Quicker and Secure with new Nexus imprint: Nexus is quicker and more secure with a fingerprint sensor. Placed on the back of your device to complement the way you naturally hold it, Nexus Imprint will turn on your screen with one touch, unlock your apps quickly and easily, and let you breeze through checkout lines. And, by incorporating measurements each time you use it, Nexus Imprint gets smarter with every touch.
5. USB type Charger: The USB Type-C charger is reversible, which means no more guessing which way is up. And it's fast—get almost four hours of use after only ten minutes of charging.
6. Android 6.0 Marshmallow: Built to get the best out of the world's most popular OS, Nexus is the ultimate Android experience. You're always among the first to receive software and security updates. And you'll have the freshest, fastest version—Android 6.0 Marshmallow—working for you right out of the box.
(All the above details are as specified on the site. Check it for yourself here )
Isn’t that all exciting? Now, the surprises don’t end there. The company is offering something more every time you purchase the cool phone.
Perks for your purchase! · Get $50 in Google Play credit when you pre-order by 10/25.6· 90 days of Google Play Music for free.
Do you need another reason to buy this phone?
For me the three exciting new features are:
a) Camera that captures more light: I am a blogger and I value the photos that I can take using my phone. It helps me keep my blog posts prettier and more appealing to the readers. Also, as they say ‘a picture says it better’. The Rear camera is 12.3 MP2; 1.55 μm; f/2.0 and the front camera is 5 MP!
b) Quicker and Secure with new Nexus imprint: I have a six year old who likes to download all sorts of angry birds, Disney games apps on my phone cluttering my phone with apps and also deletes my photos accidently. What better way than to find a phone that opens only for me? Imprint technology is exciting at such low prices.
c) USB type Charger: This is the oldest joke and always makes me lose my patience. ‘Which way is up?’ is the most infuriating question. A reversible charger takes away all the frustration for a person like me.
So guys, are you ready to check out this beauty?
“I am participating in the#ChampIsBack activity at BlogAdda.“
October 7, 2015
Newbie Corner: Pamela Bose
Today on Newbie Corner, we have the pretty Pamela Bose, a promising newbie author. Let us learn a little more about her through this pleasant chat.
Welcome to Newbie Corner Pamela Bose!
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I’m Pamela Bose, born & brought up in Allahabad, UP, professionally a company secretary & have also completed my PG in finance and PGD in international business but passionately a writer and a cook. I was pursuing my professional career in finance in Mumbai but due to some personal issues I decided to quit my job, right now I’m at my hometown and completing my further education. I’m n extremely cheerful, witty, confident girl by nature but sometimes I’m very impulsive & short tempered as well. My life revolves around my parents & my pet dog. Whatever I’m or whatever I’ll ever become will be because of them. I don’t like to live with regrets, I believe whatever happens, happens for the good, it might be difficult to accept when it actually takes place but eventually it turns out to be good. I’m an adherent believer of humanism & karma. In future I aspire to own a stray dog association with all the amenities possible and a food joint. Having witnessed many up’s and down’s in life, my approach to life is quite fearless.
What is your favorite genre in writing?
As an artist, as a creator of fictional characters, I do not bind myself to any specific genre. All my write-ups till date, be it an article, poem, story is an outcome of my introspections; it’s like a mirror image of my brain and is of varied ilk. Mostly writers have a comfort zone for writing but I personally don’t like to bind my creativity in specifications, I want it to fly and touch the sky of imaginations. Sometimes I derive idea & characters from my surroundings or personal encounters and sometimes it’s purely imaginatory.
Like in my book “Evolving India from shadows”, I wrote about a youth’s perception towards India. In “Blank space” I wrote about a child and it’s inhibitions and aspirations to pursue his desired career. In “Kaavyashala” I wrote a poem on an orphan. In my upcoming books “Men-an anthology” I wrote about the struggle of a man and in “Colours-shades of life” I wrote a story on the bond of a sterile women and an orphan child”.
I’m soon coming up with my conceptualized and compiled book “SILENT WHISPERS-The unheard symphonies”. In that book I have written on various genres like human trafficking, price of success, fatal attraction and categories of men.
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
Frankly speaking no one in person inspired me to write; rather it’s my surroundings and my journey of life which actually inspires me on day-to-day basis. I believe no matter how expressive a person is, he needs a strong medium to articulate his thoughts, and for me that medium is writing. I pick my experiences from my life & then weave them into words.
I dedicate my creative growth only to my parents who always encouraged me to write more and more and never questioned my decision to take up writing seriously.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
There are so many types of writers’ but as I said earlier I never bind myself to any genre. But potentially I’m a good academic, fictional, non-fictional, article, poetry writer. I aspire to write a permanent column for a daily newspaper and become a columnist, hopefully soon. I try to keep my write-ups very believable, I don’t prefer over dramatizing things.
I prefer to develop a synopsis of the story first and then work on it. That makes the work easier and non messy.
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
No, I can write anywhere anytime. All I need is the mood and flow of writing.
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
I don’t believe in having a favorite author rather I believe in having favorite books. Because I feel it’s not really important that a writer will deliver his best in all his books. Its’ the book which makes an author good or bad but a good book once created becomes a masterpiece. So I have favorite books but there is no one particular author whom I follow.
I enjoy reading all kinds of book but I should feel sad on reading the last page of the book, that why the book ended. For me that’s a good book which stays with me even after I finish reading it.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
I see myself doing multitasking that too successfully after 10 years. Well practically I can’t even tell you where I will be tomorrow as life is very uncertain but I pray to have a life which I dream of today. I see myself as a successful company secretary with a leading MNC, a doting daughter like I’m now, a bestselling novelist and moreover a great human being.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
There is nothing that I would never like to write but as of now I’m not comfortable in writing erotica’s. There are many who are writing it quite well but as of now I haven’t thought of doing so.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
These days a good marketing is as important as good content, because as it is said “jo dikhta hain wo bikta hain”. And with the social media hype these days, if you don’t promote your book properly, then someone else may take away the spot light with their work. To make the readers, the ultimate consumers of your product aware of it’s launch, it’s existence it is of utmost importance. It includes both online and offline distribution. To educate the readers about the book not only pops up the sale but also makes a mark on their mind and ultimately develops it’s goodwill.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
My aim of my writing is just not only to get published but through my writing I want to ignite a fire in the readers, I want to make them feel the fictional character created. My pen is not only an art for me, for me its power, power of articulating my thoughts, power to reach lakhs of people, a way through which I can make them listen my thought process, the way I decipher things . I can’t be physically present everywhere to make people know what kind of thinking’s I’m surrounded by but I can easily do it through writing.
A very important message I will like to convey my readers is that, please do not go for the books which only carries names of well known writers. I agree that they have definitely created a niche for them but trust me budding writers carries much more than them, so please rather than going for high profile authors try to read people who really have an eye for literature. They may not have brand names but they have an insight, they have a fire. Kindly respect their talent too.
Thank You Pamela! It was fun chatting with you. Wish you all success in all your future creative works and life.
Buy her books, folks...
Buy Blank Space, an anthology with 100 inspirational short stories by 100 writers from the Propel Steps Online Store ( delivery time within India 1 week) or from Amazon.in (Fulfilled by Amazon + Additional postal charges, delivers in 1-4 days)Until next post,
Much love,
Welcome to Newbie Corner Pamela Bose!
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I’m Pamela Bose, born & brought up in Allahabad, UP, professionally a company secretary & have also completed my PG in finance and PGD in international business but passionately a writer and a cook. I was pursuing my professional career in finance in Mumbai but due to some personal issues I decided to quit my job, right now I’m at my hometown and completing my further education. I’m n extremely cheerful, witty, confident girl by nature but sometimes I’m very impulsive & short tempered as well. My life revolves around my parents & my pet dog. Whatever I’m or whatever I’ll ever become will be because of them. I don’t like to live with regrets, I believe whatever happens, happens for the good, it might be difficult to accept when it actually takes place but eventually it turns out to be good. I’m an adherent believer of humanism & karma. In future I aspire to own a stray dog association with all the amenities possible and a food joint. Having witnessed many up’s and down’s in life, my approach to life is quite fearless.
What is your favorite genre in writing?
As an artist, as a creator of fictional characters, I do not bind myself to any specific genre. All my write-ups till date, be it an article, poem, story is an outcome of my introspections; it’s like a mirror image of my brain and is of varied ilk. Mostly writers have a comfort zone for writing but I personally don’t like to bind my creativity in specifications, I want it to fly and touch the sky of imaginations. Sometimes I derive idea & characters from my surroundings or personal encounters and sometimes it’s purely imaginatory.
Like in my book “Evolving India from shadows”, I wrote about a youth’s perception towards India. In “Blank space” I wrote about a child and it’s inhibitions and aspirations to pursue his desired career. In “Kaavyashala” I wrote a poem on an orphan. In my upcoming books “Men-an anthology” I wrote about the struggle of a man and in “Colours-shades of life” I wrote a story on the bond of a sterile women and an orphan child”.
I’m soon coming up with my conceptualized and compiled book “SILENT WHISPERS-The unheard symphonies”. In that book I have written on various genres like human trafficking, price of success, fatal attraction and categories of men.
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
Frankly speaking no one in person inspired me to write; rather it’s my surroundings and my journey of life which actually inspires me on day-to-day basis. I believe no matter how expressive a person is, he needs a strong medium to articulate his thoughts, and for me that medium is writing. I pick my experiences from my life & then weave them into words.
I dedicate my creative growth only to my parents who always encouraged me to write more and more and never questioned my decision to take up writing seriously.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
There are so many types of writers’ but as I said earlier I never bind myself to any genre. But potentially I’m a good academic, fictional, non-fictional, article, poetry writer. I aspire to write a permanent column for a daily newspaper and become a columnist, hopefully soon. I try to keep my write-ups very believable, I don’t prefer over dramatizing things.
I prefer to develop a synopsis of the story first and then work on it. That makes the work easier and non messy.
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
No, I can write anywhere anytime. All I need is the mood and flow of writing.
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
I don’t believe in having a favorite author rather I believe in having favorite books. Because I feel it’s not really important that a writer will deliver his best in all his books. Its’ the book which makes an author good or bad but a good book once created becomes a masterpiece. So I have favorite books but there is no one particular author whom I follow.
I enjoy reading all kinds of book but I should feel sad on reading the last page of the book, that why the book ended. For me that’s a good book which stays with me even after I finish reading it.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
I see myself doing multitasking that too successfully after 10 years. Well practically I can’t even tell you where I will be tomorrow as life is very uncertain but I pray to have a life which I dream of today. I see myself as a successful company secretary with a leading MNC, a doting daughter like I’m now, a bestselling novelist and moreover a great human being.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
There is nothing that I would never like to write but as of now I’m not comfortable in writing erotica’s. There are many who are writing it quite well but as of now I haven’t thought of doing so.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
These days a good marketing is as important as good content, because as it is said “jo dikhta hain wo bikta hain”. And with the social media hype these days, if you don’t promote your book properly, then someone else may take away the spot light with their work. To make the readers, the ultimate consumers of your product aware of it’s launch, it’s existence it is of utmost importance. It includes both online and offline distribution. To educate the readers about the book not only pops up the sale but also makes a mark on their mind and ultimately develops it’s goodwill.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
My aim of my writing is just not only to get published but through my writing I want to ignite a fire in the readers, I want to make them feel the fictional character created. My pen is not only an art for me, for me its power, power of articulating my thoughts, power to reach lakhs of people, a way through which I can make them listen my thought process, the way I decipher things . I can’t be physically present everywhere to make people know what kind of thinking’s I’m surrounded by but I can easily do it through writing.
A very important message I will like to convey my readers is that, please do not go for the books which only carries names of well known writers. I agree that they have definitely created a niche for them but trust me budding writers carries much more than them, so please rather than going for high profile authors try to read people who really have an eye for literature. They may not have brand names but they have an insight, they have a fire. Kindly respect their talent too.
Thank You Pamela! It was fun chatting with you. Wish you all success in all your future creative works and life.
Buy her books, folks...
Buy Blank Space, an anthology with 100 inspirational short stories by 100 writers from the Propel Steps Online Store ( delivery time within India 1 week) or from Amazon.in (Fulfilled by Amazon + Additional postal charges, delivers in 1-4 days)Until next post,Much love,
October 5, 2015
Newbie Corner: Anmol Rawat
Today on 'Newbie Corner', we have the talented author Anmol Rawat, who writes romance stories that make girls swoon and mothers cry happy tears. Anmol Rawat is a top blogger and popular book reviewer as well. He is my good friend and was the leader of our team 'By Lines' which won the novella writing competition by Blogadda.
Let us hear from him about things that inspires him the most.Welcome to Newbie Corner Anmol.
Follow him on Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Goodreads
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I really don’t know how to answer that. I mean, I’m always unsure how to tell a little about myself. I’m just a guy next door. No, not like an actual guy next door. I’m not implying that I’m a handsome dude on whom the girls go crazy. I just meant that I’m a regular guy with dreamy eyes and a talent that I’ve acquired over the years i.e. writing.
I began writing back in the school days. Basically, I just scribbled. Whatever came to my mind, I wrote. That was not much but I was able to squeeze out a couple of poems worth a newbie writer and some useless horror fictions, which never ended because I have always been a procrastination king. In addition, I never liked what I wrote.
I stopped writing and continued after some good two to three years when I made my first blog. Like I said I never liked what I wrote, I deleted the blog, I created another only to delete again. After about a dozen of deleted blogs, I focused on retaining my blog this time. And that blog literally gave me everything I have today as far as writing is concerned - a healthy blogger circle, some achievements, some prize wins and the courage to do something like producing an anthology with three other people - Preethi herself, Tina and Soumyaa.
I believe this answer is getting too long and probably boring now, so let’s end it here. Little? I’ve never understood that term!What is your favorite genre in writing?
Romance! Now, if you’ve read my previous answer, you might be wondering how it turned out to be romance instead of some horror or slasher stuff. Well, Nicholas Sparks is the person to blame (for good actually.)
I was not far away from the romance genre. I have always found it around in some manner or the other. I’m an emotional person and I feel a lot more than the other people my age (curse or blessing?). But the real transmutation occurred when I read ‘A Walk to Remember’. I literally streamed down a few tears while reading that book and I was amazed how words can make a reader cry. Somehow, I found a driving force in those moments. I realized I wanted to write like him.
Of course, those were just childish thoughts of my teenage. Things developed with time and I found this particular emotion to be in the need of exposure. The people these days! Love is much needed and I’ll try to put my two cents every time I can.
Of course, I’ll write horror too. Someday! Nothing better than scaring people right?
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
Nicholas Sparks like I said. It’s him and his magical talent of weaving emotions in a masterful storytelling that inspires me. Well, over the time I have read other authors too and I would love to add the name of John Green here. I haven’t read as beautiful quotes as he write in romance fictions. There’s no better feeling than people remembering the quotes from your book and flooding their social media profiles with it. Maybe someday!
For creative growth, I would definitely like to thank all my readers (no name game here because that often puts me in trouble). It is the enchanting praises and encouraging words that have kept me writing and trying to make it better every time. So yeah, if you’re reading this right now, I want to thank you even if we have never interacted.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
I’m lazy, crazy and a huge procrastinator. There’s no definitive pattern to how I write. Sometimes, I create characters in my mind and just go with the flow, sometimes, I visualize the entire thing and start writing and sometimes I just force myself to write about a particular thing.
Boy, did you think I was actually going to reveal how I write?
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
No, I don’t have any scheduled or definite time to write. For the former question, I have a desktop and I hate laptops so yeah, the favorite place is right in front of my desktop because I don’t have a choice.
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
Nicholas Sparks and John Green like I have said earlier as well. But that is if I only talk about my favorite genre i.e. romance. If I include all the genres, then Dan Brown, Stephen King, Amish and Preeti Shenoy top the list.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
Signing books at my book launch and being liked and admired by a generous number of readers.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
Don’t know about subject but I’ll never touch the comedy genre. I’m really bad at that which is why I have never tried that genre.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
It is everything. I don’t think there’s any chance at succeeding without marketing when you have such a tense competition all around you. Your book needs exposure. Even if you’ve written the best piece of the decade, it’s useless if you can’t put it in the limelight. With millions of authors, your work is just going to get lost if you don’t promote it.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
Love. Love your parents, love your partners, love your fellows and love everybody else.
Thank You Anmol for coming on Newbie Corner. Wishing you the very best in your career and life. Buy his books folks by clicking the links below.
The book was released on 22 August and is now available on Amazon India, Flipkart and Pustakmandi. You can also purchase the eBook on Google Play, where you can also go through the sample chapters before buying. More details about the book and reviews can be read on Goodreads.
Buy Blank Space, an anthology with 100 inspirational short stories by 100 writers from the Propel Steps Online Store ( delivery time within India 1 week) or from Amazon.in (Fulfilled by Amazon + Additional postal charges, delivers in 1-4 days)
Let us hear from him about things that inspires him the most.Welcome to Newbie Corner Anmol.
Follow him on Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Goodreads
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I really don’t know how to answer that. I mean, I’m always unsure how to tell a little about myself. I’m just a guy next door. No, not like an actual guy next door. I’m not implying that I’m a handsome dude on whom the girls go crazy. I just meant that I’m a regular guy with dreamy eyes and a talent that I’ve acquired over the years i.e. writing.
I began writing back in the school days. Basically, I just scribbled. Whatever came to my mind, I wrote. That was not much but I was able to squeeze out a couple of poems worth a newbie writer and some useless horror fictions, which never ended because I have always been a procrastination king. In addition, I never liked what I wrote.
I stopped writing and continued after some good two to three years when I made my first blog. Like I said I never liked what I wrote, I deleted the blog, I created another only to delete again. After about a dozen of deleted blogs, I focused on retaining my blog this time. And that blog literally gave me everything I have today as far as writing is concerned - a healthy blogger circle, some achievements, some prize wins and the courage to do something like producing an anthology with three other people - Preethi herself, Tina and Soumyaa.
I believe this answer is getting too long and probably boring now, so let’s end it here. Little? I’ve never understood that term!What is your favorite genre in writing?
Romance! Now, if you’ve read my previous answer, you might be wondering how it turned out to be romance instead of some horror or slasher stuff. Well, Nicholas Sparks is the person to blame (for good actually.)
I was not far away from the romance genre. I have always found it around in some manner or the other. I’m an emotional person and I feel a lot more than the other people my age (curse or blessing?). But the real transmutation occurred when I read ‘A Walk to Remember’. I literally streamed down a few tears while reading that book and I was amazed how words can make a reader cry. Somehow, I found a driving force in those moments. I realized I wanted to write like him.
Of course, those were just childish thoughts of my teenage. Things developed with time and I found this particular emotion to be in the need of exposure. The people these days! Love is much needed and I’ll try to put my two cents every time I can.
Of course, I’ll write horror too. Someday! Nothing better than scaring people right?
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
Nicholas Sparks like I said. It’s him and his magical talent of weaving emotions in a masterful storytelling that inspires me. Well, over the time I have read other authors too and I would love to add the name of John Green here. I haven’t read as beautiful quotes as he write in romance fictions. There’s no better feeling than people remembering the quotes from your book and flooding their social media profiles with it. Maybe someday!
For creative growth, I would definitely like to thank all my readers (no name game here because that often puts me in trouble). It is the enchanting praises and encouraging words that have kept me writing and trying to make it better every time. So yeah, if you’re reading this right now, I want to thank you even if we have never interacted.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
I’m lazy, crazy and a huge procrastinator. There’s no definitive pattern to how I write. Sometimes, I create characters in my mind and just go with the flow, sometimes, I visualize the entire thing and start writing and sometimes I just force myself to write about a particular thing.
Boy, did you think I was actually going to reveal how I write?
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
No, I don’t have any scheduled or definite time to write. For the former question, I have a desktop and I hate laptops so yeah, the favorite place is right in front of my desktop because I don’t have a choice.
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
Nicholas Sparks and John Green like I have said earlier as well. But that is if I only talk about my favorite genre i.e. romance. If I include all the genres, then Dan Brown, Stephen King, Amish and Preeti Shenoy top the list.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
Signing books at my book launch and being liked and admired by a generous number of readers.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
Don’t know about subject but I’ll never touch the comedy genre. I’m really bad at that which is why I have never tried that genre.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
It is everything. I don’t think there’s any chance at succeeding without marketing when you have such a tense competition all around you. Your book needs exposure. Even if you’ve written the best piece of the decade, it’s useless if you can’t put it in the limelight. With millions of authors, your work is just going to get lost if you don’t promote it.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
Love. Love your parents, love your partners, love your fellows and love everybody else.
Thank You Anmol for coming on Newbie Corner. Wishing you the very best in your career and life. Buy his books folks by clicking the links below.
The book was released on 22 August and is now available on Amazon India, Flipkart and Pustakmandi. You can also purchase the eBook on Google Play, where you can also go through the sample chapters before buying. More details about the book and reviews can be read on Goodreads.
Buy Blank Space, an anthology with 100 inspirational short stories by 100 writers from the Propel Steps Online Store ( delivery time within India 1 week) or from Amazon.in (Fulfilled by Amazon + Additional postal charges, delivers in 1-4 days)
October 3, 2015
On Writing: Dr Nandita Bose
Today on 'On Writing', we have the vivacious Dr.Nandita Bose, a writer par excellence.She writes nostalgic romance and like her books, she radiates benevolence and happiness. I have the privilege of having personally interacted with her and I consider her as my mentor. So I am doubly happy to have here on my blog today. Dr. Nandita Bose is an artist who dabbles in several art forms, including Khayal gayaki, poetry, art and hopeless romanticism which currently manifests as heart-warming love stories. She specializes in aesthetics and has explored teaching from nursery school to MA levels, corporate training and performance management consultancy.
Welcome to ‘On Writing’ Nandita Bose.
Follow her on : FACEBOOK WEBSITE TWITTER
How did writing begin for you? Was becoming an author always your dream or was it a particular event or incident that gave birth to the author in you?
When I look back, I realize I always wrote: journals, poems, short stories, reminiscences, travel diaries, novellas, the works. Back then publishing was hard. Only the very best or the most enterprising managed to get published. I simply knew I was not good enough to be counted among the writers whose books I read avidly. I decided to wait and learn as I went through life to hone my writing abilities. That to a certain extent, and that the standards of publishing have relaxed markedly, made me venture into writing as I do now.
How important are the names of the characters in your books to you? Do you spend agonizing hours deciding on their names?
I might seem totally cuckoo, but to me my characters are more real and fleshed out than many people I may know in real life. They live and breathe. I feel I owe them the best representation I can on paper and so, yes, I agonise over their names.
What is your least favorite part of the publishing/ writing process?
I would say the many rejections.
Yet, this I must clarify. Whatever the reason for rejection, most often the commissioning editor or the literary agent will make it seem as if the writing skills didn’t quite make the cut. In reality, all manuscripts are now being viewed in terms of ‘commercial’ potential. ‘Will this sell?’ seems to be the only indicator of the worth of a book. You would have seen the fall out. Many books seem full of promise and absolutely brilliant by their blurb, we turn and see the name of a trusted publisher and are impelled to buy it. Reading reveals the book is full of gaffes, factual errors and plain bad writing. Yet, just that enticing hook and the publicity sold it.
Somewhere all we’re being sold are mass produced burgers whereas in reality we need a healthy mix of comfort foods, regional delicacies, world cuisine as well as fine dining. Of the mind.
What is ‘Shadow and Soul’ all about? How long did it take to complete writing it? What is unique about it compared to your other works?
Shadow & Soul is the story of an adult relationship that springs up quite unexpectedly between the young artist-photographer Shaurjyo and his married hostess, Devika. It is a story of how subtly yet beautifully human bonds form and how love transcends all.
This book took a little over 3 months to write.
I think the key departure from my other works is that I have moved considerably from my earlier stance of making my characters believable and acceptable. Both Devika and Shaurjyo are unconventional central characters. The other thing that is unique to this book is that I have focused far more intensely on the many facets of love: comfort, attraction, teasing, togetherness, sharing, passion, sex, doubt, withdrawal, parting and reunion.
Who is your favourite character in the book and why?
Let me put it rather naughtily... If I were ever to have an extra marital affair, it would be ideally be with someone like Shaurjyo: sensitive, artistic, honest, engaging, vulnerable and brave enough to go beyond conventions.
Is it autobiographical or completely fictional?
Shadow & Soul is fully fictional. Too few aspects are biographical, though all of it comes from a mix of observation and wishful thinking.
Is there a certain type of scene that is harder for you to write than others? Did you face such an issue while writing Shadow and Soul?
Sex scenes! I never think of myself as a prude. However, I have the greatest difficulty trying to do justice to the act while still retaining creative integrity. Each time I attempt, vivid descriptions from the Bad Sex Scene awards from various great writers flash in my mind. In all my work so far, I think I have done the greatest justice to the scenes of passion in Shadow & Soul. I think somewhere I was carried away by the honesty and earthiness of my protagonists.
What is your method of writing? Are you a plotter or a pantser?
The writing impulse is always unplanned and very inconvenient. Predictably, I flounder after a few chapters. Then my organisational skills take over and I make a kind of blueprint for the chapters ahead. Never have I managed to follow that.
Do you read your reviews? Do you respond to them, good or bad? Do you have any advice on how to deal with the bad?
I try and read as much as I can of my reviews. Most of them amaze me as they subject the book to a kind of careful scrutiny I could never imagine. To me the characters are the way they are and their actions flow quite naturally. However, reviewers typically make associations and read deeper into their motivations and I feel quite excited by these discoveries. Luckily for me most of my reviews have been nicer, so I tend to focus on that.
In the corporate world, the top 5% and the bottom 5% of the feedback is written off as extreme. The truth lies in the mid band. All feedback is useful only as much as it helps us learn and review. Most importantly, reviews should not be taken personally. Also remember, most feedback is more about the reviewer and their expectations than about your book or you.
What are the three tips you have for readers who are aspiring writers?
1) Read: Extensive reading subtly guides our writing processes.2) Revise: Careful revision is essential for a great output.3) Reach: Do all it takes to step into the next level of your abilities.
Thank you Nandita Bose for being a part of 'On Writing'. I am sure the readers have enjoyed the chat as much as I did. Wishing you the very best for "Shadow and the Soul'.
Buy Shadow and Soul from AMAZON
from MANJULINDIA
Trust me guys, her books are a treat. If you haven't read her yet start with her first book Tread Softly. Don't miss Shadow and Soul too, it is her best till now in my opinion.
Check out Tread Softly, of which I have written a review HERE.
So what are you waiting for, head out to any online book portal of your choice and check out her books.
Until next post,
Much Love,
Welcome to ‘On Writing’ Nandita Bose.
Follow her on : FACEBOOK WEBSITE TWITTER
How did writing begin for you? Was becoming an author always your dream or was it a particular event or incident that gave birth to the author in you?
When I look back, I realize I always wrote: journals, poems, short stories, reminiscences, travel diaries, novellas, the works. Back then publishing was hard. Only the very best or the most enterprising managed to get published. I simply knew I was not good enough to be counted among the writers whose books I read avidly. I decided to wait and learn as I went through life to hone my writing abilities. That to a certain extent, and that the standards of publishing have relaxed markedly, made me venture into writing as I do now.
How important are the names of the characters in your books to you? Do you spend agonizing hours deciding on their names?
I might seem totally cuckoo, but to me my characters are more real and fleshed out than many people I may know in real life. They live and breathe. I feel I owe them the best representation I can on paper and so, yes, I agonise over their names.
What is your least favorite part of the publishing/ writing process?
I would say the many rejections.
Yet, this I must clarify. Whatever the reason for rejection, most often the commissioning editor or the literary agent will make it seem as if the writing skills didn’t quite make the cut. In reality, all manuscripts are now being viewed in terms of ‘commercial’ potential. ‘Will this sell?’ seems to be the only indicator of the worth of a book. You would have seen the fall out. Many books seem full of promise and absolutely brilliant by their blurb, we turn and see the name of a trusted publisher and are impelled to buy it. Reading reveals the book is full of gaffes, factual errors and plain bad writing. Yet, just that enticing hook and the publicity sold it.
Somewhere all we’re being sold are mass produced burgers whereas in reality we need a healthy mix of comfort foods, regional delicacies, world cuisine as well as fine dining. Of the mind.
What is ‘Shadow and Soul’ all about? How long did it take to complete writing it? What is unique about it compared to your other works?
Shadow & Soul is the story of an adult relationship that springs up quite unexpectedly between the young artist-photographer Shaurjyo and his married hostess, Devika. It is a story of how subtly yet beautifully human bonds form and how love transcends all.
This book took a little over 3 months to write.
I think the key departure from my other works is that I have moved considerably from my earlier stance of making my characters believable and acceptable. Both Devika and Shaurjyo are unconventional central characters. The other thing that is unique to this book is that I have focused far more intensely on the many facets of love: comfort, attraction, teasing, togetherness, sharing, passion, sex, doubt, withdrawal, parting and reunion.
Who is your favourite character in the book and why?
Let me put it rather naughtily... If I were ever to have an extra marital affair, it would be ideally be with someone like Shaurjyo: sensitive, artistic, honest, engaging, vulnerable and brave enough to go beyond conventions.
Is it autobiographical or completely fictional?
Shadow & Soul is fully fictional. Too few aspects are biographical, though all of it comes from a mix of observation and wishful thinking.
Is there a certain type of scene that is harder for you to write than others? Did you face such an issue while writing Shadow and Soul?
Sex scenes! I never think of myself as a prude. However, I have the greatest difficulty trying to do justice to the act while still retaining creative integrity. Each time I attempt, vivid descriptions from the Bad Sex Scene awards from various great writers flash in my mind. In all my work so far, I think I have done the greatest justice to the scenes of passion in Shadow & Soul. I think somewhere I was carried away by the honesty and earthiness of my protagonists.
What is your method of writing? Are you a plotter or a pantser?
The writing impulse is always unplanned and very inconvenient. Predictably, I flounder after a few chapters. Then my organisational skills take over and I make a kind of blueprint for the chapters ahead. Never have I managed to follow that.
Do you read your reviews? Do you respond to them, good or bad? Do you have any advice on how to deal with the bad?
I try and read as much as I can of my reviews. Most of them amaze me as they subject the book to a kind of careful scrutiny I could never imagine. To me the characters are the way they are and their actions flow quite naturally. However, reviewers typically make associations and read deeper into their motivations and I feel quite excited by these discoveries. Luckily for me most of my reviews have been nicer, so I tend to focus on that.
In the corporate world, the top 5% and the bottom 5% of the feedback is written off as extreme. The truth lies in the mid band. All feedback is useful only as much as it helps us learn and review. Most importantly, reviews should not be taken personally. Also remember, most feedback is more about the reviewer and their expectations than about your book or you.
What are the three tips you have for readers who are aspiring writers?
1) Read: Extensive reading subtly guides our writing processes.2) Revise: Careful revision is essential for a great output.3) Reach: Do all it takes to step into the next level of your abilities.
Thank you Nandita Bose for being a part of 'On Writing'. I am sure the readers have enjoyed the chat as much as I did. Wishing you the very best for "Shadow and the Soul'.
Buy Shadow and Soul from AMAZON
from MANJULINDIA
Trust me guys, her books are a treat. If you haven't read her yet start with her first book Tread Softly. Don't miss Shadow and Soul too, it is her best till now in my opinion.
Check out Tread Softly, of which I have written a review HERE.So what are you waiting for, head out to any online book portal of your choice and check out her books.
Until next post,
Much Love,
October 1, 2015
My Creative Genie
There was a time when merely reading books made me the happiest person alive. But these days that has ceased to be the biggest entertainer.
Now, more than reading, I crave to write, I value the time I get to create new characters and a new world.
Why? Because writing opens up a different portal, a parallel universe where I am the God! I make my characters laugh, love, cry, fight and live happily ever after. There comes moments when the chatter of their voices doesn’t allow me to sleep, moments when their trauma or heartache becomes mine. There are also moments when they put me in dilemma by having their own thoughts and aims and take the story to places quite alien according to my carefully planned story line. They bring in new friends, new characters and twists adding excitement to the whole creative process.
My muse, my creative genie, as I would like to call it, has become my biggest entertainer. It becomes hyperactive sometimes and sometimes much to my horror goes on hibernation. I have to tease and prod multiple times when that happens. And boy, somehow I have mastered to entice it now and again with a promise to be loyal to it.
The best part about creative writing is the feedback from my readers. The moment when a reader searches you out on Facebook or twitter just to let you know that they loved your book. It is when hearing feedback from strangers that I get maximum satisfaction. Friends sometimes give surprises when they argue with you for the treatment of some characters in the book. It is oddly satisfying when a character creates such a sentiment in your readers. One friend said he fell in love with the heroine of ‘Without You’ and wanted to somehow meet the original person that inspired the character, so as to try a hand at getting into his/her good books!
Exposure and fame does follow success for a writer. I too had my moments and was featured in many online interviews after the release of my book in June. I also got press coverage in The New Indian Express on August 12.
My book’s offline book launch was done by eminent writer Nandita Bose, whose writing I love. Check my post here where I talk in detail about the book launch.
So this magical thing called writing, together with my creative genie is bringing me happiness and making my little world a better place. I don’t regret leaving my well paid day job anymore, because writing is giving me joys that money cannot buy.
Words with their magic can change your world. Dear reader, do you not wish now to test their magic?
If you haven't read my book yet, buy it here:
Paperback : Amazon.inEbook : Amazon Kindle
Now, more than reading, I crave to write, I value the time I get to create new characters and a new world.
Why? Because writing opens up a different portal, a parallel universe where I am the God! I make my characters laugh, love, cry, fight and live happily ever after. There comes moments when the chatter of their voices doesn’t allow me to sleep, moments when their trauma or heartache becomes mine. There are also moments when they put me in dilemma by having their own thoughts and aims and take the story to places quite alien according to my carefully planned story line. They bring in new friends, new characters and twists adding excitement to the whole creative process.
My muse, my creative genie, as I would like to call it, has become my biggest entertainer. It becomes hyperactive sometimes and sometimes much to my horror goes on hibernation. I have to tease and prod multiple times when that happens. And boy, somehow I have mastered to entice it now and again with a promise to be loyal to it.
The best part about creative writing is the feedback from my readers. The moment when a reader searches you out on Facebook or twitter just to let you know that they loved your book. It is when hearing feedback from strangers that I get maximum satisfaction. Friends sometimes give surprises when they argue with you for the treatment of some characters in the book. It is oddly satisfying when a character creates such a sentiment in your readers. One friend said he fell in love with the heroine of ‘Without You’ and wanted to somehow meet the original person that inspired the character, so as to try a hand at getting into his/her good books!
Exposure and fame does follow success for a writer. I too had my moments and was featured in many online interviews after the release of my book in June. I also got press coverage in The New Indian Express on August 12.
My book’s offline book launch was done by eminent writer Nandita Bose, whose writing I love. Check my post here where I talk in detail about the book launch.
So this magical thing called writing, together with my creative genie is bringing me happiness and making my little world a better place. I don’t regret leaving my well paid day job anymore, because writing is giving me joys that money cannot buy.
Words with their magic can change your world. Dear reader, do you not wish now to test their magic?
If you haven't read my book yet, buy it here:
Paperback : Amazon.inEbook : Amazon Kindle
September 30, 2015
Newbie Corner: Vinodini Iyer
Today on 'Newbie Corner' we have the gorgeous and versatile Vinodini Iyer.
Welcome to "Newbie Corner' Vinodini.
Find her on FACEBOOK
HER BLOG
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I am an Andhriate, born and brought up in Gujarat, a painter by academics and a design professional by occupation. I have always been a dreamer. I love observing people and use my imagination to guess their background and thoughts in my own way. Although, I wouldn’t want to typecast myself as a feminist, I do end up writing from the perspective of a woman.
I used to write from a very young age. In my school days, I would scribble pieces of poetry on the last page of my class notebooks, particularly during boring Math classes. My mum would collect those forgotten poems and file them neatly, often sending them to the kids’ columns of local newspapers. Although, I was inclined towards writing stories back then, I could never finish an entire story due to lack of focus. I continued writing poetry throughout my college days, a tad inconsistently though.
I started blogging about 7 years back but was again rather inconsistent. It was only in the recent years, when I took a temporary break from corporate life that I started writing again. This time it was articles for an educational newspaper for the youth. Soon I revived my blog and started participating in blogging challenges, which exposed me to a lot of bloggers and writers from across the globe. It is along this blogging journey that I realized that I was inclined towards the art of storytelling.
What is your favorite genre in writing?
My favorite genre is fiction. I love spinning tales and I often surprise myself with the twist and turns in my own tales. I also love studying different styles of storytelling of other authors. It speaks a lot about the mind-set of the author themselves.
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
My main source of inspiration is my mother. Her endless pursuit for honing her creative skills is amazing. I wish I had the same kind of enthusiasm in my own ventures. I also get inspired by a lot of people I have known, watched or read, consciously and sometimes subconsciously imbibing their traits.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
I never plot my stories. Even if I do, it changes with the flow of words that comes to me in random bouts. I stick to spontaneity and that works for me most of the times.
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
Not really. It all depends on my mood. If I’m in the mood to write, I have to do it, no matter where I am. I sometimes write on my cell phone in the middle of my sleep!
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
My favorite authors are Cecelia Ahern, Mitch Albom, Ayn Rand, Jeffery Archer, Sydney Sheldon, Enid Blyton and among Indian authors, I enjoy reading Amish Tripathi and R.K. Narayan’s books. I like reading fiction with a generous sprinkling of romance and a pinch of philosophy in it.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
I see myself spending more time doing things I love doing and if feasible turn into my livelihood. Yes, I do nurture dreams of becoming a full-time writer, writing novels.
I am currently working on what I hope will be the story of my first novel. It is about a small town girl from south India, who breaks free from the narrow-minded boundaries of the orthodox mindset that she has been raised in, only to be surprised by the flip side of life on the other side of the boundary, in the big bad city called Mumbai. I hope to bring out and clear a lot of misconceptions small town girls normally carry about the glitz and glamour of big cities.
The book is still in its nascent phase and I look forward to finish it soon.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
I would never write anything technical. I am more inclined towards creative writing.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
I think it is as important as writing the book itself. A book adds value when it touches a bigger audience, and that can effectively be achieved only through proper marketing.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
The one message I wish to give my readers is that live your life one day at a time…with full spirit. Most of my fictional characters reflect a certain shade of life that either I have experienced or observed in somebody else’s life. There are many shades to life, but the moment you’re living in is the shade that is going to further make or mar your rainbow of life. Choose your colors wisely J
The book released on 22 August and is now available on Amazon India, Flipkart and Pustakmandi. You can also purchase the eBook on Google Play, where you can also go through the sample chapters before buying. More details about the book and reviews can be read on Goodreads.
Buy Blank Space, an anthology with 100 inspirational short stories by 100 writers from the Propel Steps Online Store ( delivery time within India 1 week) or from Amazon.in (Fulfilled by Amazon + Additional postal charges, delivers in 1-4 days)
Thank you Vinodini for the interesting answers. It was wonderful knowing more about you. Wishing you a bright future in your writing career.
Buy her books and encourage this debut author folks.Until next post,Much Love,
Welcome to "Newbie Corner' Vinodini.
Find her on FACEBOOK HER BLOG
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you begin writing?
I am an Andhriate, born and brought up in Gujarat, a painter by academics and a design professional by occupation. I have always been a dreamer. I love observing people and use my imagination to guess their background and thoughts in my own way. Although, I wouldn’t want to typecast myself as a feminist, I do end up writing from the perspective of a woman.
I used to write from a very young age. In my school days, I would scribble pieces of poetry on the last page of my class notebooks, particularly during boring Math classes. My mum would collect those forgotten poems and file them neatly, often sending them to the kids’ columns of local newspapers. Although, I was inclined towards writing stories back then, I could never finish an entire story due to lack of focus. I continued writing poetry throughout my college days, a tad inconsistently though.
I started blogging about 7 years back but was again rather inconsistent. It was only in the recent years, when I took a temporary break from corporate life that I started writing again. This time it was articles for an educational newspaper for the youth. Soon I revived my blog and started participating in blogging challenges, which exposed me to a lot of bloggers and writers from across the globe. It is along this blogging journey that I realized that I was inclined towards the art of storytelling.
What is your favorite genre in writing?
My favorite genre is fiction. I love spinning tales and I often surprise myself with the twist and turns in my own tales. I also love studying different styles of storytelling of other authors. It speaks a lot about the mind-set of the author themselves.
Who inspires you most and to whom would you dedicate your creative growth?
My main source of inspiration is my mother. Her endless pursuit for honing her creative skills is amazing. I wish I had the same kind of enthusiasm in my own ventures. I also get inspired by a lot of people I have known, watched or read, consciously and sometimes subconsciously imbibing their traits.
What kind of a writer are you? Do you plot the entire novel/story or make it up as you write.
I never plot my stories. Even if I do, it changes with the flow of words that comes to me in random bouts. I stick to spontaneity and that works for me most of the times.
Do you have a favorite place to write or a scheduled time to write every day?
Not really. It all depends on my mood. If I’m in the mood to write, I have to do it, no matter where I am. I sometimes write on my cell phone in the middle of my sleep!
Who are your favorite authors and what is the genre that you like reading most?
My favorite authors are Cecelia Ahern, Mitch Albom, Ayn Rand, Jeffery Archer, Sydney Sheldon, Enid Blyton and among Indian authors, I enjoy reading Amish Tripathi and R.K. Narayan’s books. I like reading fiction with a generous sprinkling of romance and a pinch of philosophy in it.
Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
I see myself spending more time doing things I love doing and if feasible turn into my livelihood. Yes, I do nurture dreams of becoming a full-time writer, writing novels.
I am currently working on what I hope will be the story of my first novel. It is about a small town girl from south India, who breaks free from the narrow-minded boundaries of the orthodox mindset that she has been raised in, only to be surprised by the flip side of life on the other side of the boundary, in the big bad city called Mumbai. I hope to bring out and clear a lot of misconceptions small town girls normally carry about the glitz and glamour of big cities.
The book is still in its nascent phase and I look forward to finish it soon.
Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
I would never write anything technical. I am more inclined towards creative writing.
How much important do you think marketing is for the success of a book?
I think it is as important as writing the book itself. A book adds value when it touches a bigger audience, and that can effectively be achieved only through proper marketing.
What is the message that you want to convey to the readers through your writing?
The one message I wish to give my readers is that live your life one day at a time…with full spirit. Most of my fictional characters reflect a certain shade of life that either I have experienced or observed in somebody else’s life. There are many shades to life, but the moment you’re living in is the shade that is going to further make or mar your rainbow of life. Choose your colors wisely J
The book released on 22 August and is now available on Amazon India, Flipkart and Pustakmandi. You can also purchase the eBook on Google Play, where you can also go through the sample chapters before buying. More details about the book and reviews can be read on Goodreads.
Buy Blank Space, an anthology with 100 inspirational short stories by 100 writers from the Propel Steps Online Store ( delivery time within India 1 week) or from Amazon.in (Fulfilled by Amazon + Additional postal charges, delivers in 1-4 days)
Thank you Vinodini for the interesting answers. It was wonderful knowing more about you. Wishing you a bright future in your writing career.
Buy her books and encourage this debut author folks.Until next post,Much Love,
