Author Interview with Jasveer Singh

How long have you been writing or when did you start?

It’s been three years since I started writing regularly. It all started sometime in 2017 when I started writing randomly for self-introspection. By doing this I wrote about 55,000 words and this became my first book ‘Version One and a Half’. Publishing the first book gave me the confidence I needed and after this it has been a steady journey so far with five more books till date.

What is the most difficult part of your writing process?

Unlike conventional writers, who need peace and quiet to write, my writing process works differently. I write best in public places and public transport because I am a keen observer of my surrounding. In public places, especially in public transport, my writing senses are the highest level but with Covid it has been difficult for me to be in public transport hence writing has slowed down a bit.

What comes first for you — the plot or the characters — and why?

Always the plot for me because for me it all starts with a situation. I develop my characters according to the plot.

What’s your favorite and least favorite part of publishing?

Favorite part of the publishing process is readers review. Being a trainer I have always valued feedback and readers reviews help me improve my writing process. The part that I hate is the publishing process itself. I would need to write an essay about this so let’s just leave it at this.

How did you come up with the title for your book?

Double One Zero (110) – Out of the shadows is an ode to the action movie genre. It has references to many action movies and characters I have seen and adored while growing up. Within action movie genre, spy thrillers are my favourite and with Double One Zero (110) – Out of the shadows I want to start an Indian spy franchise.

What inspired the idea for your book?

The dynamism and fast pace of spy thrillers inspired me to write a spy thriller of my own.

What part of the book did you have the hardest time writing?

The twist, which is the centre of the entire story. I wanted it to be different and something which people can’t even think of while reading the book.
What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused? It depends because my writing space is usually public places with my phone or tab as my writing tool.

What is your kryptonite as a writer?

Surprisingly quietness and seclusion because of the lock down has been the kryptonite. Why I used ‘surprisingly’ is because, while most writers would crave for peace and quietness, I love the hustle and bustle of public places for my ideas and lockdown due to covid-19 has indeed effected my writing process.

If your book were made into a movie, which actors would play your characters?

I would love that. Since my centre character is a middle aged guy but is physically robust and an expert in hand to hand combat, I want a physically fit matured actor to play the role of 110.

What is the future for the characters? Will there be a sequel?

Definitely, the sequel is tentatively titled Double One Zero (110) – Double again

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

When not writing I love to explore the outdoors. I love to explore nature.