Interview with H.G Ahedi
Author of Haunted
H.G Ahedi holds a PhD in biomedical sciences and is a fictional writer. Haunted is her second book. She spends a lot of time writing and when she is bored of her desk; she wants to hop on a plane and travel the world. As that is not always possible she explores local Sydney beaches and parks and enjoys a nice cup of coffee.
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How would you describe Haunted to a new reader?
- If you are looking for a page turning mystery thriller that is fun and exciting and makes you laugh, read Haunted. It's super exciting because it has multiple plots coming together and keeps the reader guessing till the end.
Why is the book called Haunted?
- Something haunts everyone. We all have a past in which we might have suffered severe trauma or death or despair. It haunts us. In the same way, in this book the killer haunts his victims to punish them for what they did before they meet their death and leaves no trace, until a medical examiner picks up the case.
Which authors do you admire? How have they influenced your writing style?
- I grew up reading Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle. I am fan of Perry Mason (Erle Stanley Gardner) and Alfred Hitchcock. Currently, I am enjoying reading Clive Clusser, Gillian Flynn and Arthur Clarke. I can note a lot of influence especially on how I create plots.
Did you always want to be a writer?
- No. I loved reading and telling stories, but never thought of becoming a writer. It was not until I dreamt a plot, and described it to my friend. She loved it and told me to write it down. That was in 2003. I wrote my first book based on that dream (Black Moon) and published it in 2007. Since then I have been writing but never thought of becoming a professional author until 2018, when I wrote Haunted's first draft.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors? How would you advise a new author about traditional publishing versus self publishing?
- Do not write a book because you have to, do it because you want to. Write the book for yourself and your readers. Traditional publishing is great, but with self publishing you have more control.
What's your writing process?
- I used to write without an outline, but now it does not work for me. So when I get a plot, I write a para or page describing the book. I may not have everything in place, but I do like to have a structure. It reduces the likelihood of writer block and also helps me create fantastic plots.
Which character in Haunted has had the greatest impact on readers?
- There are three main characters in the book. Roumoult I feel would have the most impact on the readers as he is trying to help the NYPD and his friends to get to the heart of the mystery before anyone else dies.
If Haunted were to be adapted for TV or film, who would you see in the lead role? Who did you have in your mind’s eye when you wrote him/her?
- I would love Haunted to be adapted into a movie. I'll leave the decision of the lead role to the directors as I am not an expert in the field.
How have readers responded to Haunted?
- They just loved it. I know I am bragging about my book. I was a bit worried about feedback but it was good to know that the story surprised and mesmerised them and they loved it and finished it in a couple of days.
Where next? What are you working on now?
- I published my first book in 2007 (Black Moon), and I have recently updated to that book and it is available for preorder.
