Author's Interview with Victor Truth.

Before we dive into our exciting conversation with today’s remarkable author, let’s start by getting to know the creative mind behind the diverse and captivating stories.

1. Could you please introduce yourself to us?

I am a short story/skit author, novelist, and award winning article writer. Although a management consultant by profession, I have an eternal passion for writing.

I have been scribbling since I was thirteen -- when my very first, hand-scrawled, fortnightly magazine(s) found its way into my kid siblings' hands. Followed by scripts/ short stories that were devoured by school mates, skits that made it to school/college stages, and articles/flash fictions that featured on competitions. 

Being raised in Mumbai - the city that never sleeps, has had a big impact on my writing...my debut novel Bombay, Decoded, a first of its kind World War II genre fiction for young adults, is a fitting tribute to the city of Bombay, its spirit, its will and its heart.

2. Congratulations on your book! What inspired you to write it?

Thanks! Mumbai. Honestly speaking, Mumbai is the main inspiration behind my latest book-- intended to be the first of a series. I wanted to take Mumbai's story back to its infancy, long before imperial forces landed on its shores...when only Kolis walked its sands and treaded its waters...

Additionally, It somehow feels the right thing to do – to write about the place I was born and raised in – rather than conjure tales about distant alien lands and cultures.  I would be a fish out of water or a stranger in a strange land (!) if I did so.  So here, I am, back to where I started from…penning again a tale about Mumbai, yet again for teens/young adults. 

3. What is your book about?

Well, its about Mumbai...before it became Mumbai! Heptanesia (seven islands) as it was called in Greek folklore. It's an adrenaline-filled excursion to explore Mumbai, like you have never before…carting back in time to witness legends rise, histories writ, and the metamorphosis of seven-forlorn-islands into a bustling metropolis. 

4. Why did you choose this genre for your book?

Young Adult genre is so unevolved in India...there is a lack of good content. While growing up I had to resort to non-Indian fiction books to satiate my reading-hunger.  So, I primarily focused on the trying to bridge this gap for YA Indian readers. I have abstained from bringing in fantasy elements, though at times I had a strong desire to do so, for the fear of losing credibility of Mumbai’s story.  As this neither is a fantasy genre nor is the island of Mumbai a fantasy, it is as real as you and me, as flesh and blood as a piece of land can be.  Moreover, if I look around me, life is very magical – even from the tiniest of insects to the mightiest of beasts, there is magic all around us – we just need to open our eyes, to see it, and our minds to completely grasp it!

5. How long did it take you to complete the book?

4 years. 

6. What makes your book special?

I believe no fictional story has taken Mumbai  so far back in time as I have. Most books stop at imperialist Bombay...I had a great time weaving this Heptanesian world.

7. When can we expect your next book?

Early next year...Mar 2026. Matsya Dolkar & The Secret of Chintamani.

8. Did you experience writer’s block while writing? What advice would you give to others who face it?

Yes, in fact many times. Fight it! Keep on putting pen to paper. If still stuck with a particular sequence/chapter...resort to the "bypass the block" technique. Skip it! Move on to the next sequence or chapter.  Once you get your rhythm back, return to the block to complete it to your satisfaction.

9. Besides being a talented author, what are your other hobbies?

Of course Reading :), hiking, and listening to music.

10. Last but not least, how did you feel during this interview?

Relaxed!!

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