INTERVIEW WITH SHRADDHA SAHI- BY NAINIKA GAUTAM

The written word has been the centre of Shraddha’s existence for as long as she can remember. She grew up on a steady diet of British writers; first the saccharine sweet Enid Blyton, then the dry wit and action sequences of Alistair Maclean and later the real, dangerous and rarely happily ever after imagery of Dick Francis. Most people know her as an ophthalmologist, but the ‘I’ demands that she write. 

She lives in Pune, Maharashtra but her heart roams the mustard fields of Punjab. Her son chatters away in Marathi but she thinks in British English! Most of her work is introspection set in fiction. She finds herself attracted to stories about women – strong ones, funny ones and kickass women. So naturally she writes about them too. Her words are laced with self deprecating humor and tend to stay with you long after you’ve shut the book. 

She can be contacted at 

Email: drshraddhavs@gmail.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/shraddha.s.satav

Please tell us something about yourself? 

Hi! I’m an ophthalmologist based in Pune. I’ve been writing ever since I can remember. I’m a voracious reader and often finish a book a day. My cerebral cortex is a complicated place, what with the Punjabi genes, Marathi culture and British influences via the reading! I find myself drawn to romance and thrillers. My first published book was a collection of poems titled F.I.S.T – an outpouring of angst, longing and dreams. I have also written a novel A Doctor in the House which is a love story with a medical background. Both books are available online. 

What would you call the most striking feature of your write-ups? 

I write about love, disappointment, expectations and hope. My humor is a bit dry and subtle, what you would call tongue in cheek! 

Why did you choose to be a writer? 

Writing chose me! I have specialized in Glaucoma after doing Ophthalmology, but even while working, I find my mind weaving stories around the patient sitting across me. Doctors are trained to observe and listen and that’s good practice for writing. I find I can make sense of my thoughts only when I put them on paper. Till then, nothing’s real. 

What role does the cover of book plays according to you?

The most important part of the book is the cover. If that is not appealing, no one is going to pick up the book. A colorful image in keeping with the theme of the book goes a long way in pushing the person browsing in the aisle or online towards checkout! 

Do you have a specific writing style?

I find myself writing more about feelings, how the character thinks and how he/ she sorts out his/her life in the mind first. I go for gutsy, strong female characters that don’t conform to the norms of society. 

Tell us something about your story in “Moonlit Matinee 3”. 

Letters from Ladakh is my story in the anthology. It’s a humorous look at arranged marriage – at the dreams and desires in the girl’s mind when she sets out on the journey of her life, literally and metaphorically. Her honeymoon is unexpected in many ways and she experiences the reality behind the rose tinted glasses. 

Please tell us something about lead characters of your story. 

The heroine of the story is a strong girl with set ideas of how her life is going to be. She is heavily influenced by friends, Hindi movies and Mills and Boons ideas of romance. The guy is in the background of the story, but he’s a typical messy, rough around the edges male who she’s going to polish! 

Do you believe that in order to beautiful romantic love story one needs to live that kind of life? 

If you’re living a beautiful, romantic life – you’re going to be a satisfied person and that makes for boredom! Contentment makes you lazy. When you have nearly everything, you focus on what’s missing and the chase is what keeps you going. You’ll find that old spinsters write the most passionate romances! 

What is the basic motive behind your story? 

I wanted to write about how sometimes we have unrealistic expectations from people and places. It’s not where you travel to that makes you happy as much as the journey and who you’re going with. Your outlook colors what you see and that’s a very powerful realization. 

How did you come up with the plot of your story? 

I've been to Ladakh and it was thrilling, scary and exhilarating place. It challenges you as a person and as a couple when you find yourself in difficult situations. It set me thinking how a girl, newly married to a relative stranger would react. 

How is experience working with Gargi Publishers?

Gargi Publishers have been very kind and encouraging. They had a clear idea about their concept and presentation of this whole book. They have opened up a new world of writers that I have become friends with and that’s rare nowadays. Gargi has a genuine love for the written word and novel ideas for marketing. When you’re focused on creativity and not money, it shows. I would like to thank Pulkit and his wonderful team for my fabulous experience here. 

What would you like to say to our readers? 

A writer cannot exist unless there’s someone to read his work. Books are a beautiful way to learn, to communicate and to pass things on to the future generations. Enjoy this book, recommend it to everyone you know and do let us know what you liked or didn’t!

*Do order your copy of "The Notebook of Romance today from http://www.flipkart.com/notebook-romance-english/p/itme3g5hxwb3fztc *

INTERVIEW WITH PRIYANKA BOSE- BY NAINIKA GAUTAM

Priyanka Bose, an Economics graduate from Jharkhand University, is a young, mesmerizing freelance blogger. She is currently employed with a leading prep-school in Gujarat as an Academic Manager and has worked hard to reach where she is now. She is hardworking yet crazy, a passionate reader, an ardent music fanatic and avid coffee lover. She likes to pen down whatever her heart feels.

Experiences have taught her that life won’t come easy to her; she needs to grab all the opportunities that come her way. She currently resides in Ahmedabad with her family.

Get to know her more through her blog: http://remembaranceoflove.blogspot.in/

She can be contacted at: 

Email: priyankabose@hotmail.com

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/priyaaahana

So Priyanka, how do you define yourself?

I’m hardworking yet crazy, a passionate reader, an ardent music fanatic and avid caffeine lover. I write what I feel. I want to be judged by my performance and rewarded for my efforts based on my ability of execution. Every day is a challenge for me — that is what helps me become better at what I do.

Being a graduate in Economics, don’t you feel you have switched to an entirely different field (writing)?

I never planned a road map for myself based on my educational background. Still, changing fields has been exciting, invigorating and ultimately satisfying. In a career spanning 7 years, I have experienced most of the different facets of life and have objectively deciphered that my forte has been managing client relations and training (connecting with people). Writing helps me express my feelings and connect with people. It is my passion, my hobby. I have not thought about it as a profession as yet.

How different is life as an Academic manager and as a writer?

Writing was initially an academic or professional endeavor — a necessary skill for effective communication. As a working professional you cannot express yourself all the time. There are obvious do’s and don’ts which curtails one’s ability to express one’s feelings. When I express my feelings through words I can be as expressive as I want to be. But I still don’t see myself as a “writer”. Not the kind of writer people read for pleasure or for ideas or inspiration. However, I love writing — the beauty and complexity of expressing one’s feelings on paper and the way that the written word evokes such strong emotions and inspires great action.

What do you expect from literary world?

I write to express myself, to connect with my fellow human beings.

According to you what impact does books and reading has on society?

Books are the mirror of society. Books are the building blocks by which humanity builds community. It is akin to asking whether the left hand affects the body. So reading, in any society, helps to connect and strengthen the social bonds.

Please tell us something about your story in Moonlit Matinee3 ?

My story “ The Second Chance “is a story of a girl who is heartbroken in love but after a conversation with her mother she takes solace in the fact that she still has the chance to experience love at its purest best. She gives herself “the second chance” and allows love to reveal itself when the time comes and when love comes knocking on her door, she opens it wide and experiences it all over again.

Who are the lead characters of your story?

The lead characters of my story are Aayat (an average looking girl,modest yet broken inside) and Aahan (the macho man - life changer).

Why do you think should readers prefer to read your story? 

The readers can connect with my story as it has a very basic tag line,” Prepare yourself for a happy life, and love will find its own way into your life.” The story portrays how to fall in love again, you can’t shut out the memories of your old relationship. Instead, learn from it and use it as an experience to make yourself a better person. Always understand that you may have experienced a bad relationship, but that doesn't mean love is bad.

What do you expect from Moonlit Matinee3?

I simply want readers to feel my characters and relate. Life is much easier if we expect the least.

How is life after Moonlit Matinee3 ?

This question always brings a smile to my face. Initially, I had never ever dreamt that I would be a published author. It wasn't something that I had longed for or pursued with any commitment or passion either. In time, as I became more confident with my writing, the appreciation and recognition has followed. Post MM3 people now call me “a writer”, which is an achievement in itself.

Which features of Gargi Publisher do attract you?

Hard work & dedication is the key to any business and Gargi Publishers Do not leave any stone unturned in their endeavor. I must also mention Pulkit here, a man I have seen striving hard for and with every writer and that does wonders for the morale of a newcomer like me. A big “Thank You” to Gargi Publishers for giving me an opportunity, I am honored to be associated with you.

What would be your message for the readers?

I believe that the readers define an author. I love connecting and I would appreciate if my readers review my work and update me with their feedbacks and insights. I would like my readers to visit my blogs and review my work. My Blogs are all about “what I feel, my emotions & my dreams”. I hope that all my readers connect with me on ....

http://draftsunsent.blogspot.in/ - unsent letters, unconfined emotions

http://remembaranceoflove.blogspot.in/ - mix emotions and experience about life.

Last but not the least, don’t forget to buy Moonlit Matinee 3- The Notebook of Romance.

You can also send me your reviews and suggestions regarding my story and also about the anthology on priyankabose@hotmail.com.

Happy Reading Folks.

*Do order your copy of "The Notebook of Romance today from http://www.flipkart.com/notebook-romance-english/p/itme3g5hxwb3fztc *

Interview with Pavitra Singh - By Nainika Gautam

A boy with a million dreams, Pavitra Singh hails from Jhalawar, Rajasthan. He is currently in class 12th pursuing commerce. He started showing interest towards writing in 2014, after being inspired by a small girl. He is associated with three anthologies: ‘Love Bytes’, ‘Still Something is Missing’ and ‘31 Sins’. He has written a poem for the E-Magazine ‘Extra Mile’. He is a national level badminton player and has represented his state. He has also won many medals for his school. He has great interest in music and can play the tabla and guitar as well. He likes to write about love stories. Chetan Bhagat and Ravinder Singh's novels have inspired him and he has a desire to conquer the world someday. 

Buy his book here: Flipkart (and don't forget to drop your reviews)

Here we get to know him a little more closely:

So, please tell us something about yourself.

Hello Ma’am. Hello Everybody I am Pavitra Singh, 16 year old boy belongs to a very small town of Rajasthan that is Jhalawar. I am a National Badminton Player and had represented my district in swimming and table tennis also. I have a keen interest in music. I play table and guitar too. I have started my writing career from last April. Till now I have contributed for seven anthologies including Notebook of Romance and for Extra Mile- e magazine also. I am an intern at Deals Street and The Campus Connect and a content editor at QUIP magazine. Apart from this, I love listening to music and Chetan Bhagat is my idol.

How do you feel to be a part of this ever big literary family at such a younger age? 

I feel proud to be a part of this literary family. It was totally opposite for me to write as I am a sportsman and these two fields are totally opposite to each other. I enjoy being with the mates, I learn new words, listening to different experiences of friends and sharing your experience had its own taste.

How did you develop your interest in Literary Field?
 

Interest? I never had an interest in reading books or novels. I read 3-4 novels in a year. It was just an inspiration I got from a little girl who had written a masterpiece in an anthology. When I read that story, only thing was in my mind “WHEN SHE CAN AT THIS AGE, THEN WHY CAN’T I? EVEN WHEN I HAVE MORE EXPERIENCES THAN HER” This line made me think about my writing career. And my life partner who helped me in every phase of my life. Though she came late haha but it wasn’t that late. 

Poems or Stories, what do you enjoy writing most? 

I have never tried my hands on poem and I think for that you need a better command over the language that is missing in my part. So ultimately I love writing stories, sharing my experiences that I received from this world with the world. And it is also enjoyable because whenever I start writing any stories, words come up automatically and want to tell you that I have written this story ‘7 Days and I am in a relationship’ in just 2 hours as I was already against the time. 

Which genre do you enjoy writing most and why? 

I love writing on love. It gives immense pleasure to me whenever I share my little experiences. 

Tell us something about your story in Notebook of Romance.
 

My story ‘7 Days and I am in a Relationship’ is a story of a young couple who had been in a long distance relationship. They met over Facebook and had funniest conversation after that. They end up giving up their relationship or successful in keeping it alive? Read the story for this tragic end. 

Tell us something about the lead characters of your story.
 

There are only two lead characters in my story that is Anamika and Priyesh. 

How close is your story to your real life?
 

This story is very close to me as right now I am also in a long distance relationship and though the end is totally fiction and not related to my life. But relationship over facebook, meeting over facebook something you can relate. 

What was your motive behind writing this story?
 

My motive behind writing this story is to make people’s thinking broader. Parents are ready to allow their child to sleep with an unknown person on the wedding night instead of the person they know from 2-3 years. Still the orthodox thinking exists in the story and this story’s end is very much related to that. I want people to understand love. It’s not always that if somebody failed in a relationship means everybody will. You are the only one who will going to manage everything not the one who failed. 

Which part of the story did you find most impressive? 

I like the meeting part most impressive as it was unique in its own way. They had funny conversation, only in a single day she started liking him. 

How is experience at Gargi Publishers after one anthology with them? 

Only one word for Gargi Publishers- Awesome. This is a perfect place for a writer to get published. They are hardworking, active and they are helping. Pulkit Sir’s words inspire us a lot. And moreover I love his surprises that he used to give. I am also thankful to him for being such a nice professional person. I love being a part of this family and I am feeling proud that I am associated with this venture. 

What would be your message for readers? 

I want people to love and write. Don’t think about the world, they are meant for it. Don’t care about ‘LOG KYA KAHENGE’. Just do whatever you like and don’t curse you for being nothing. Because it is the failure who teaches you everything in life. Just repeat it again n again till you don’t get a better outcome. Thanks. That’s it.

(This interview was taken by Nainika Gautam under the internship program by Gargi Publishers)

Interview with Sabi Shaikh - By Nainika Gautam

Sabi Shaikh, the author of “Via Delhi – A twisted tale of Love” which is receiving an outstanding response nationwide, is a charismatic lad who has loads of energy and the charm to get you addicted to his witty and unique style of writing. He holds an MBA degree in Marketing from ICFAI University. He hails from the city of Mumbai and is residing in Hyderabad for the past 8 years. Sabi is very passionate about whatever he does be it writing, biking or working out. He lives his life by the quote “Impossible is just a word... Means nothing” which was written by him. He is also an avid animal lover and a huge fan of Mother Nature. Sabi’s biggest dream in life is to be a successful Bollywood script writer someday and he has already started working towards achieving his dreams. “Deaf & Dumb Love” will be marking his debut as a short story writer. 

Buy his book here: Flipkart (and don't forget to drop your reviews)

Here we get to know him a little more closely:

Hi Sabi, so first of all tell me how do you feel being interviewed by same person for the third person. I mean even I am like that what should I ask?

Hahahaha … Even I am like what should I tell. I like being interviewed by you firstly because the interviews now are more like two friends having a conversation and secondly because you don’t take cheap shots at me.

So tell me, why do you think should readers prefer to read you instead of others? 

Honestly, I may not be the best in the Market but I sure can connect with the readers. My style of writing is very dictionary free and I try to keep my description as picture perfect as possible. But the main reason why people should read my book is because I write from the heart and I don’t do this for money. Anything that comes straight from the heart is always beautiful.

Do you believe that we must not judge a book by its cover? If yes, then why do authors prefer best cover for their books? 

Novels on an average have around 50k to 75k words and believe me writing so much keeping factors like grammar, creativity, spell checks, paragraphs etc in mind is not a cake walk. After all this hard work, every Author deserves a superb cover for this work. It’s just like a package for this hard work and efforts. It is true that we must not judge a book by its cover but that clearly doesn’t mean that you end up having a rubbish cover.

What are you doing to achieve your target to be a Bollywood script writer?

I am a firm believer of Destiny. Everything has a right time and I am patiently waiting for my time. People have finally started recognizing me as a writer and if Bollywood has to happen it will happen someday. 

What are your views for increasing trend of Facebook for marketing of books?  

Tell me who doesn’t have a Facebook account? Facebook is an excellent platform to promote and market your books. You can sit at home and promote your book … Who else gives you that kinda luxury? With time I am very sure that marketing on Facebook is only going to increase. I have put in a lot of time and effort behind Via Delhi and if it wasn’t for Facebook I wouldn’t have been where I am today … You see that’s how effective Facebook is. 

Tell us something about your story in Moonlit Matinee3. 

“Deaf and Dumb Love” is a very cute teenage love story of Saif and Priyanka. I have once again tried to keep the language as simple as possible. Just like Via Delhi, this story too has a major twist. The story is all about unconditional love and acceptance.

What is the most striking feature of your story? 

I have tried to come up with something very out of the box this time. The title of my story “Deaf and Dumb Love” clearly tells you that this is not a NORMAL love story. The title itself is a very striking feature of my story.

Your book is also a love story and this short story is also the same. How do you come up with such beautiful love stories every time?

That is because I have experience unconditional Love too. If you have experienced Love and if you are blessed with a creative mind you can write MAGIC. My love story had a very tragic ending and I am very vocal about it every time but the good news is that I am going to keep writing more such beautiful Love stories. I want people to fall in Love after reading my books. I don’t want fame nor am I a success crazy freak... I just want to see more people falling in Love around me.

Which character of your short story is your favorite? 

Saif is my favorite character and the reason for that is only because of his unconditional Love that he has shown towards Priyanka. He just loves without expecting in return.

Which part of your story is your favorite?

That would definitely be the climax of the story … Unexpected … Twisted.

Tell us something about your upcoming projects? 

I have started working on my second novel which is once again a Love Story. I should be done writing by March and then the editing and publishing work starts. My last novel was a TWISTED love story... This one would be CRISPY. I am trying to write something different this time and I hope people like it. All that I can say at this moment is that this love story would revolve around the life of a fictitious sportsman from Mumbai.

Would you like to share anything that has been left by me? 

I guess that covers just about everything. I just want to tell my readers that Love with honestly … Don’t sail your relationship on false hopes and don’t break promises. Live up to your commitments or don’t commit at all. Love is a beautiful thing … Don’t taint it … Cheers!!!

(This interview was taken by Nainika Gautam under the internship program by Gargi Publishers)

Interview with Ranjit Nimbalkar - By Nainika Gautam

Ranjit Nimbalkar currently resides in Pune. He is a class 12^th (Science) student. He loves to read novels and unfortunately hates textbooks. He loves to make new friends and gain some share of knowledge from them too. His most loved genre is romance and he loves to write about it too. When he is neither reading novels nor writing nor studying, he prefers listening to music. He loves to travel and explore the world. Sometimes he also tries his hand at poetry. 

Buy his book here: Flipkart (and don't forget to drop your reviews)

Here we get to know him a little more closely:

Please introduce yourself? 

Hello, my name is Ranjit Nimbalkar. I am currently residing in Pune, Maharashtra. I am a class 12^th(Science) student and preparing myself for the competitive exams (JEE). I am guy who really hates text-books from the bottom of his souls and would love to give his life to read novels. My favorite author is John Green. And I am die-hard fan of ‘One-direction’.

How does it feel to be an author at such a young age? 

It feels good, but nothing anything like great. I love to read novels and sometimes do write, and that’s all I do.

Is there any specific reason that you love to write romance? 

Hmm. I think this has something or another with my past. Yeah, but the day when I decided to write whether it’s a poem or story, romance was the first thing which hit me.

So, what do you enjoy most, writing poetry or stories? 

Writing the story is what I enjoy the most. I don’t have any specific reason to support my point but I think writing a poem requires much involvement of mind and writing a story just requires a true bleeding heart. (Yeah, editing a story needs brain, but that’s a different story)

What changes do you see in your life after being an author? 

No such big chances. Recently many messages do flooded on my Facebook’s account and Whatsapp about congratulating me and asking more about my story. One of my friends did said, “bhai tu toh bhul jayegaa ab hume”. Its feels good but all these haven’t lifted me to anything. I am simple guy and would always be.

Tell us something about your story in Notebook of Romance. 

Love is something that can make you or break you. It depends upon on how you handle it. In broken relationship moving on seems to be impossible, because all our heart needs is a second chance or a strong explanations or a little bit help. And my story ‘Something Unsaid’ is all about it.

How close is your story to your real life? 

The story is totally opposite to my real love-life.But I would love if my life turns out be like this tale.

Which part of your story did you enjoy most? 

CLIMAX. For some reasons I won’t reveal and would keep this for the readers to discover. 

Tell us something about characters of your story? 

Sonam Datta is the main character of my tale. She is the one whose has sacrificed a lot and hence plays an important role.After break-up, the life of the love-birds changes upside down.  And then the male protagonist of this tale ends up doing all those dramatic things which Devdas had done.But, is this the end of their relationship? No. Then what happen next? I will leave the rest for readers to find out.

Which is the character of your story that you think should be a part of your life too? 

Sonam Datta (The female lead character). After reading the story,all the broken hearts over there, would love to have her on their side. *smiles*

How is experience at Gargi Publishers? 

It was just awesome. These guys are really professional. And the thing which I learnt about them is that they don’t think about their margin of profit, they are much concerned about the people and the service they provide. No doubt with such enthusiasm they are the India’s fast growing publishing house.

What is your message for our readers? 

Never ever belittle love and respect the feelings of others.  Because for some, life may give them second chance for improving their mistakes; but for some, life puts them in another roller-coaster and the game of pains starts all over again.

(This interview was taken by Nainika Gautam under the internship program by Gargi Publishers) 

Interview with Khushboo Gulrajani - By Nainika Gautam

Khushboo Gulrajani is a lecturer of English, a research scholar and a Ph. D student. She comes from the small town of Nadiad, Gujarat. Her areas of interest are postmodern studies and marginalized subjects. She is pursuing her Ph. D research on Select Indian Canadian Playwrights: a Diaspora Study. Khushboo writes fiction, articles, research papers, reviews and is a movie buff. Being a student of literature, she loves reading books that subvert the accepted notions set so far. She loves watching low-budget, off-beat movies. She desires to acquire a Master’s degree in Comparative Literature in the future and achieve her doctorate at the earliest.  She debuted in the field of writing as a contributing author in the anthology ‘Secrets of Soul’. Many of her research papers in the field of English Literature have also been published in books and online. 

Buy her book here: Flipkart (and don't forget to drop your reviews)

Here we get to know her a little more closely: 

Please tell us something about yourself.

I am Khushboo Gulrajani and I am a student of literature. I have done my M.A and M.Phil in English Literature. I am an M.A – English Gold Medalist from Sardar Patel University. At present I am pursuing my Ph.D. research on Select Indian Canadian Playwrights: A Diaspora Study. I come from Nadiad, a small town in Gujarat, where writing has not utterly matured but few greenhorns like me are striving to change the perspective. Apart from being a research scholar,I am also a lecturer of English and my students are the source behind my smile and zeal. I have written quite a few research papers published in various books, e-journals and research journals. My first story to publish was “I Turned Twenty-five” in an anthology Secrets of Soul – 12 best feelings ever. I am a movie buff watching each and every movie that comes to me but adore only off-beat and low budget movies. I like reading books and watching movies that explore the absurd.

Coming from research background, what attracted you towards literary field?

My area of research itself is literature. As I said I am a student of literature, I have grown up reading books from all the ages of English literature and few of American Literature. This field of literature is an enormous with innumerable theories emerging these days. So an amalgamation of research and literature appropriately defines my interest.

Writing fiction, articles, research papers, reviews, what is that you enjoy most and why?

This is something tricky to answer. Let me define what all means to me one by one. Fiction is my world where I can do what I wish to. Article writing for me is highlighting or bringing change towards what is happening around me. Research papers are my way of preparing a dish of few pages with the ingredients of what a writer has written and what theories I could apply to it. While reviews for me is doing inquest (sorry to use this word) of books and movies the way I like as a reader and spectator respectively. All of these fulfill different purpose and being diplomatically straightforward you will find it difficult to get an answer from me.

What seems to be the best part of being a writer according to you?

Freedom- the only word I could say. Whatever you feel, you wish, you love; you can just pen it down. Once the censorship enters this field, it will lose its charm. You spread your thoughts on paper and fill yourself with lightness of being.

Life of a research scholar or life as an author, which one is your favorite?

One more googly question! Research scholar works from mind and author from heart. We, in life, too follow either heart or mind to take significant decisions of future. Same is the role of both for me.

There are many anthologies coming into the market, what made you chose Moonlit Matine 3 amongst them?

Moonlit Matinee is a series of anthology and its previous two anthologies have been a great success. Some of its past contributing authors have now published their own novels. On the other hand it also gives an opportunity to debutant writers, which others usually don’t. Who won’t like to be the part of it? 

What is your story, “How I fell in love” about in Moonlit Matinee? 

My story “How I fell in Love” is entirely a fictive one. It is in the form of a diary entry which is read in the present time by the girl who has written it after her marriage. She chose to read the best pages of her diary which are depicted to the readers in the form of this story. Mahi, the center character of the story, is a very simple girl, who goes on a trekking camp with her girlfriends. She falls in love with the most happening guy over there. The romantic scenes between both of them will surely pass a chill in the reader’s body. It is a romantic story with a climax where readers may find themselves in a dilemma while predicting it. Does her love sustain or gets done with the camp is a question which will be answered when you read the story.

Which characters are the lead characters?

Mahi is the lead character in this story followed by VJ. Mahi as I said is a simple girl. Though from a city, she remains untouched by the culture of city life. She remains in the company of her female friends; never talk about and to boys and don’t even party or wear fashionable clothes. VJ is exactly opposite to her. He is the heart throb of entire camp. Girls are fond of him; he parties hard and is full of life. Both of them get infatuated towards each other.

Which feature of your story do you feel will be the most loved one for the readers?

Of course the romantic feature. The romance portrayed over here is a slowly evolved one; romance in its pure form. As title shows, it’s about falling in love. Most of the readers are youth and they love this ‘love thing.’ They will love ‘the love’ shown here.

Is your story inspired by real life incidents or its purely fiction?

Oh! It’s a fiction. But I sincerely wish this turns out to be someone’s real story and if not readers relate to it in some or the other way.

How was the experience working with Gargi Publishers?

It was phenomenal. The one word I can say about the Gargi Publisher team is Industrious. They are really quick in providing you the best. Whether it’s the founder, the editorial team or the media, they are always on the toes to serve you. I wish to work again with Gargi Publishers in future and will surely recommend it to the budding and renowned authors. They also give good quality books at reasonable prices.

What would be your message for our readers?

As it is known that if you want to get knowledge and education altogether either travel the world or read books. Especially young India must. You can live many lives in one life if you read books. And don’t forget to buy Moonlit Matinee 3- The Notebook of Romance. You can send me reviews and suggestions regarding my story and also about the anthology on khushboo.gulrajani09@gmail.com. Happy Reading.

(This interview was taken by Nainika Gautam under the internship program by Gargi Publishers)

Interview with Aashi Dahiya - By Nainika Gautam

Aashi Dahiya is a literature student pursuing English Honors from the University of Delhi. Being an avid reader, her interest lies in almost all genres of English writing. Her first story titled “What Love is…” has been published in the anthology “Drenched Souls” in October 2014. She is also a part of the upcoming anthologies “Case Files of the Dead” and “Turning Point of Life”.

She is a very strong supporter of feminism and her blog titled “Being a Woman” reflects her support. She volunteers at an NGO called ‘ROPIO Foundation’. She has participated in a number of debate competitions as well. Apart from writing, debating interests her. She is a deep thinker and seeks good objectives to write about.

Buy her book here: Flipkart (and don't forget to drop your reviews)

Here we get to know her a little more closely:

Aashi, Define yourself in single line. 

I am a Belief actor, Growth nurturer, Intuitive thinker, a loyal friend and a learner.

You are a contributed in 3 books till now and Moonlit Matine 3 is your fourth one, what changes do you see from your first book to fourth book? 

My very first book was Moonlit Matinee 2 and the fourth one now is Moonlit Matinee 3, so this little and beautiful path of these fours have brought numerous changes, be it my writing style, my ability to build plots and etc. I have learnt that diversity is very much required in writing. I have also learnt to present not only thoughts but precious gestures through words. Well, I believe there is much more to learn ahead. 

You say, you support feminism, so apart from blogging what steps have been taking for empowerment of women? 

It is said, “The change begins with you.” As a teenage woman, the first and foremost step I take is that I always stand up for what I feel. I am not a Norm-believer. And I encourage all the other women to always speak up for themselves first. Unfortunately, for now I am not very well-capable to support feminism on a large scale but fortunately, I can always stand up for, fight for and most importantly talk for the women I live around. I am sometimes called as a “Wordsmith”, so as my part I encourage my teenage girlfriends and other women to at least bring up their thoughts forward and not follow the norm-tantrums of the world. I believe that Words are the most powerful strength a person can behold, so I use my words well to support the concept.

Which genre do you feel most comfortable to write? 

I would say Romantic genre.

Do you have a specific writing style? 

I don’t particularly think so. My writing style is varied, it’s not specific. When it comes to writing, I am utterly dedicated and most of the times, I forget to follow or build a specific style.

How do you think you’ve evolved creatively? 

I have evolved thoroughly. My stories are my confidence boosters. There have been changes in my way of thinking and way of presenting myself to the society by the time I have received exposure to the literary world as a writer. My creativity is expanding to accept all aspects more freely and open-heartedly. 

Tell us something about your story “The magical Door” in Notebook of Romance? 

The Magical Door is a magical story about love beyond reality. It happens to be an extraordinary tale in its own way. At one hand when “The Magical Door” is somehow related to the supernatural element in its storyline, it is immensely realistic in its morals on the other.

Who are the lead characters in your story? 

The lead of my story is a young and lovely lady named Myra.

Your story is based on Love beyond life, heaven and Death. Do you believe that this kind of love still exists in materialistic world? 

I believe love exists and that in all its forms. Belief makes miracles happen so this kind of love is a miracle itself. And I have learnt that what’s not possible if one believe in it. May be somewhere someday somebody is experiencing this love.

Is there any lesson to learn in your story? 

My story teaches a very necessary lesson to all beings of all ages and all classes, my story tells you to fall in love with life. It tells you to understand the importance of getting hurt and then overcoming it. It tells you to give life another chance.

This is your second project with Gargi Publishers. How do you feel working with Gargi Publishers?

I am more than proud to work with Gargi Publishers. The team at Gargi is so much dedicated to their work. Time is everything at Gargi Publishers. I respect them a lot because of the fact that they always complete their works with most decency on time as promised. It’s great to be a part of such a firm.

What would be your message for our readers?

My message to the readers would quote a statement which is somehow related to my story I feel, “Everyone should smile. Life really isn’t that serious. We make it hard. The sun rises. The sun sets. We just tend to complicate the process.”

(This interview was taken by Nainika Gautam under the internship program by Gargi Publishers)