1) When did you decide to write a book 'Ixchel'secret' ?
I had always wanted to see my name published as an author since childhood. So the idea of writing a book has always been there. I wrote Ixchel’s Secret during the COVID lockdown. We were stuck at home and had lots of time. I charted out a 21 day time table to help with the writing.
2) Do you want to inspire people through your writing or do you write just as a hobby ?
It’s mostly a hobby. But I do write children’s books and would like to publish that too and maybe inspire a few kids.
3) What inspires you to write?
The ability to imagine and make it happen through my books. Living through the mind of each of my characters, anticipating each of their decisions and actions and executing these in the book is very thrilling to me.
4 ) who are your favourite characters from your own books and why ?
It’s my protagonist Jon. From a mundane character with a boring daily routine he evolved to someone who is very courageous and deals with something he never imagined he would face in his life. He evolves a changed man. We all go through life experiences and what is important is how we evolve from these experiences.
5 ) Who are your favourite writers?
I’m mostly a hopeless romantic and love Nicholas Sparks books. I also love Enid Blyton books which helped me with a lot of imagination during my childhood. Sydney Sheldon, Stephen King, Danielle Steel, Madhavikutty, MD Vasudevan, KR Meera are a few of my other favourite authors. The list could be endless as I love to read a lot.
6 ) One advice you would give to the upcoming writers?
Read. Read. Read. Read a lot. Reading helps to convey your story to the reader. It helps on how you write. Also research about your story, the locations, the plot and the emotions of your characters. Understand your characters and plot well before you begin to write.
7) Did you face any issues in publishing or editing?
As it was during Covid lockdown I did not have enough finances to hire an editor when I published. I did get it edited later.
8) In your book 'Ixchel's secret' there goes lot of research. Can you please tell the resources and books you referred?
It was mostly done on the net. I researched mainly on people’s experiences travelling to the places mentioned in the book. I wanted the readers to feel that they are actually travelling to the places. Being a psychologist also helped in the character development. I researched about the Mayan civilisation too. Most of this was online as it was all during the lockdown and physical resources were limited.
9) You are also a mother. How do manage to take care of home and also pursue writing?
My husband helped a lot to take care of my girls. I would tell them that I’m going to write and they would not disturb me. They supported a lot during those days.
10) You also own a company. Can you please tell us more about it ?
Our company Spyro International is based out of UK and India. We focus on HR solutions. This year, we are also working on starting a foundation to work towards women empowerment where we plan to help women achieve financial independence through job skills that would make them employable and also working on bringing in character education for children too.
Let's know you more ( Fire round)
a) Your inspiration
My parents. My husband. Whatever happens in life they deal with it calmly and find solutions. I usually freak out. They inspire me to be more grounded in my life.
b) Any other hobbies apart from writing
Painting. Designing clothes for my girls and sewing them. Crochet.
c) Your favourite holiday spot
My dream is to visit Switzerland. I love any holiday spot with mountains and cooler climates.
d) Your favourite book and film
Harry Potter series, The Lord of the Rings series, The Notebook.
e) what does life mean to you? If given a chance what would you like to change on this earth or add?
Life is about living each day as it comes. Life goes on, no matter what. So there is no point being sad about the past or worried about the future. Live in the moment. I would like to add more compassion in humans to their fellow beings. I see a rise in the frustration levels these days and would like to change it. Bring more harmony in the world.
F) Your favourite song and singer
Top of the world by Carpenters
g) Favourite quote
“What we think, we become.” - Buddha
Thanks and regards,
Natasha George
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