Author Interview: Aithal

(Aithal is the author of Beyond the Milky Way Find my review of the book here. )


What was the inspiration behind "Beyond the Milky Way"?

I don’t know if I would call it an inspiration, but I always have wondered of a “what if” situation. What if there are others? What would their lives be like? Even for my first book, India Was One, I always thought of a “what-if” scenario. What if India was further divided into two countries? What would happen to people’s lives. Where would they go? I’d say that if I had to define a commonality between two of my books, it would be “what-if”.

How important is research to you when writing a book?

Research to me is very important. It gives authenticity to my stories. Of course, this being a science fiction, there is more room to fantasize. However, I’ve tried to be as realistic as possible in non-fantasy situations.


When you develop characters do you already know who they are before you begin writing or do you let them develop as you go?

Absolutely. Properly defined characters make the story more valid. That being said, there are certain quirks, idiosyncrasies in a character that often develops along the story.

Is there a message in your novel that you hope readers will grasp? 

Yes, there is. As you have read the book, you’d agree with me when I saw that it’s very thought provoking. There are many beliefs that you will question, may them be religious, political, scientific, existential, etc.

When writing do you prefer to use a pen and paper or any kind of electronic device? 

I write it on my PC on Microsoft Word.

What kind of atmosphere do you need to write?

Quiet. Helps me think.

What book has had a strong influence on you or your writing?

Without trying to sound conceited, I’d say none. I try to develop my own style. 

What do your friends and family think of your writing?

Not much J I’m not a writer by profession, nor do I consider myself as one. I’m merely the author of this book. There are thousands of more talented folks than me. I am a web developer. In fact, I enjoyed developing both my books’ websites (www.thegalaxyseries.com and www.IndiaWasOne.com ) as much, if not more, as writing them.

Have you ever read your own writing and tried to see it from the readers' point of view?

Yes, several times when I was editing the book, but only once as a finished product. It’s impossible to gauge a reader’s likes and dislikes. Things I may take for granted may fascinate them, or vice versa.

What would you like to tell aspiring writers?

Never give up. NEVER. Follow your dream. Believe in yourself, even when others don’t.