● Can you tell us something about yourself?
Hi, My name is Jemimah Jonah. I am 25 and I live with my parents in Chennai. I work as a business analyst by day in US-based private healthcare IT firm. I love sketching, painting in addition to reading and writing.
● How is your book different than others?
It is my belief that not many books are written where the Main Character can see ghosts and interact with them. Moreover, finding a female lead in books these days is hard. Most of the emotional experiences are based on real-life feelings which I hope adds a touch of reality to the story.
● Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
I watch a lot of movies and read a lot of books. Most times, the idea comes from them or they just stem from a song that I’ve been listening to.
● What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your book?
The sheer amount of research that is put when one starts writing a book was definitely surprising. I had to read multiple books on both forensic science and books on ghosts and afterworlds to get the terminologies and ideologies correct.
● What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?
It’s crazy. I work eight hours a day in my day job (that is from the work from home situation alone). I’d have to throw in a couple more hours if I’m commuting to work and returning home. After I clock out at work, say at 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM, I take a 30 min break to relax and then start writing. This goes on till 3:00 AM.
● What do you think makes a good story?
A good flow of language, relatable characters, and strong emotions makes a good story in my eyes.
● What is your writing process like?
So, with this debut book, I first created a detailed outline of how I want the plot to be. Then came the extensive research and character developments. After this, I began writing my first draft, got it edited by a developmental editor, and rewrote it around six times before submitting it for publishing. Once I submitted my manuscript, it was thoroughly checked by the editor that Invincible provided.
● What advice do you have for writers?
Keep writing. Do go back to edit your work to perfection in your first draft. That way you’ll never get it complete. Trust yourself but also hire a developmental editor. Rewrite your draft a few times and get it edited.
● How did this story occur to you?
I always imagined how interesting it would be if there was a crime and the investigator could see ghosts. That’s how I began writing this book.
● What is the book all about?
This book follows Detective Victoria Brooks who can see ghosts as she races against time to solve the mystery behind a series of murders that are happening in Westhill. The book also deals with grief and friendship.