Time travel, fate, and life’s biggest ‘What Ifs’—these are the themes that drive Falling In & Out, the gripping novel by Nishant Prakash. In this exclusive interview, we dive into his inspirations, writing process, and the intricacies of storytelling that make his book a must-read.
1. What inspired you to write Falling In & Out? How did the idea for the story come to you?
I’ve always been a fan of speculative fiction and time travel stories. The complexity of storytelling in this genre has always intrigued me. What sets great time-travel narratives apart—whether it’s the lighthearted loops of Groundhog Day or the intense, layered storytelling of Dark—is how they explore human emotions in extraordinary scenarios. My challenge as a writer was to make these speculative elements relatable and emotionally resonant for readers.
2. Can you share some insights into your writing process? Do you follow a specific routine or have any unique rituals that help you get into the creative flow?
For me, writing is a way to relax and detach from material concerns. It’s an avenue where my mind can truly wander and create. I observe people and situations keenly, always questioning the ‘Why’ behind human behavior. This habit of silent observation has played a significant role in shaping my characters and storytelling. I also believe research is crucial, and much of mine comes from real-life experiences and societal observations.
3. Your characters are quite distinct and memorable. Are they inspired by real people or purely fictional?
While none of my characters are directly based on real individuals, their experiences and reactions are influenced by real-world events. The book touches on growing communal and caste-based sentiments in India during the ’90s and early 2000s, illustrating how even the most rational minds can be shaped by their surroundings. Many character traits were developed through detailed persona-building at the outset of writing.
4. Your book delves into contemporary issues and their impact on individuals. What motivated you to explore these themes?
We often perceive people and situations in black and white, but in reality, everything exists in shades of grey. An individual’s choices and perceptions are shaped by their experiences and circumstances. My goal with Falling In & Out was to highlight this idea—how external factors shape our inner worlds. While the novel is centered on time travel, its essence lies in understanding human nature and its evolution over time.
5. The world-building in your novel is incredibly immersive. How did you approach creating the setting? Did you draw inspiration from real locations or events?
Much like the real-life influences on my characters, the settings and events in my book are also inspired by reality. The challenge was integrating these real-world elements into multiple timelines and alternate realities, ensuring they evolved consistently with the characters’ journeys.
6. How do you balance originality with the expectations of the time-travel genre? Did you face any challenges in making your story stand out?
Originality lies in the execution—the way a story is told, the perspectives it explores, and how it challenges conventions. My biggest challenge was weaving contemporary social commentaries into the book without alienating readers with polarizing opinions. Through two rounds of intensive editing, I stayed true to the story’s core themes, ensuring the narrative remained engaging and meaningful.
7. The pacing of Falling In & Out keeps readers hooked. How did you approach maintaining tension and momentum?
Initial feedback from beta readers suggested that the book started slow but picked up pace later. I realized that a dual pacing approach was necessary. The first half is more detailed, allowing readers to deeply connect with the characters. The second half accelerates, delivering the thrill expected from the genre. Some might pause before diving into Part 2, but those who continue will find the payoff worth it.
8. With evolving media and reader preferences, how do you see storytelling adapting? How do you ensure your work connects with modern audiences?
The rise of alternative storytelling formats has paved the way for stories like Falling In & Out to thrive today. While timeless storytelling will always have a place, contemporary themes, diverse characters, and relevant social issues make a book more resonant with today’s readers. To connect with modern audiences, writers must:
- Address relevant contemporary issues
- Create diverse, multi-dimensional characters
- Utilize multiple platforms and formats for storytelling
9. Final thoughts for readers—why should they pick up Falling In & Out?
If you love stories that make you think about life’s biggest ‘What Ifs,’ challenge your perceptions, and take you on an emotional rollercoaster through time, Falling In & Out is for you. Step into a world where every second counts!
Grab your copy today on Amazon and embark on an unforgettable journey through time, choices, and fate!
