Bridging the Past and the Future: A Conversation with Mayank Manohar About His Novels

I am excited to share this exclusive interview with Mayank Manohar, a talented author whose storytelling has captured the hearts and minds of readers. With a knack for weaving intricate narratives that delve into the complexities of human emotions, Mayank's work reflects a deep understanding of life’s challenges and triumphs. With time, Mayank's passion for storytelling has grown stronger. In our conversation, he shares the early inspirations that sparked his interest in writing, from personal experiences to the stories of those around him. As a writer, he believes that every life is a narrative waiting to be told. His commitment to exploring these narratives has led him to create characters that resonate with readers on multiple levels.
The writing process is often fraught with challenges, and Mayank opens up about the hurdles he has faced thus far. He describes moments of self-doubt and the pressure to meet expectations from himself and his audience. Through these challenges, he has discovered his true voice as a writer. As we delve deeper into the discussion, Mayank reveals how he chooses to develop his characters and plotlines. He believes in the power of research and drawing from real-life experiences, allowing his characters to feel relatable and genuine. Each character reflects the people he has encountered and the stories he has heard, creating a rich tapestry that enhances the depth of his narratives.
Join us as we embark on this insightful journey with Mayank Manohar, gaining a deeper understanding of his writing process, the themes that inspire him, and the experiences that shape his narratives. His passion for storytelling shines through in every word, making this an interview you wouldn't want to miss.

1. Please, let us know about yourself. How did you discover your passion for writing? Could you please share with us how your writing journey began? Was there a specific moment that inspired you to pursue writing?
A. Writing has been a significant part of my life since 2007 when it started as a simple hobby. At the time, I was living alone in Hyderabad, studying in 10th grade, and began scribbling my thoughts to make sense of my emotions. What started as random musings soon became a way to express myself.
As I progressed through college, I realized that what had initially been a hobby had evolved into something much more profound—writing became my passion, my form of expression, and an inseparable part of who I am. By the time I graduated, I understood that without writing, my life would feel incomplete—it had become not just a passion but a vital part of my being.
Over the years, I’ve drawn inspiration from both literature and personal experiences. Whether it was my time in engineering, my journalistic career with The Times of India, or my journeys across India, writing allowed me to reflect on the human experience, relationships, and emotions. Each phase of my life added depth to my stories and characters.
It was during these transformative years that I realized writing wasn’t just something I did—it was who I am, and it led me to my debut novel, Shadow of the Past. That book opened the doors for me to fully embrace my identity as a writer. Today, with the launch of my second novel, A Glimpse of the Future, I continue to share stories that delve deep into mental health, resilience, and self-discovery, hoping to inspire and connect with readers.

2. Congratulations on your second book, "A Glimpse of the Future"! How does it feel to be releasing another book? Has the process been different from your first?
A. Thank you so much! Releasing A Glimpse of the Future feels incredibly exciting and, honestly, a little surreal. Writing a sequel comes with its own set of emotions. On one hand, I feel immense joy and pride to continue the journey that began with Shadow of the Past. On the other hand, there’s also a sense of responsibility to meet the expectations of readers who connect with the first book and are eager to see what happens next.
The experience this time around has been both familiar and different. With Shadow of the Past, everything was new—getting published, navigating feedback, and learning the ropes of the literary world. It was a learning process at every step. This time, I had a clearer idea of what to expect, but the challenges were different. Writing a sequel requires continuity, not just in the plot but also in tone and emotion. I wanted to ensure that the characters grew naturally while staying true to their essence.
Another key difference has been the focus of the story. While the first book dealt with themes of love, loss, and personal identity, this book dives deeper into mental health, resilience, and redemption. Writing A Glimpse of the Future has been a more personal journey for me—it touches on topics I care deeply about, such as anxiety, depression, and the power of human connection.
The process also brought new lessons in patience and persistence. As with any creative work, there were moments of doubt, but those moments were opportunities to push myself further. Seeing the book come to life has been incredibly rewarding, especially knowing it might resonate with readers who are facing similar inner battles.
All in all, the journey from my first book to this one has been transformative, and I am grateful for the continued support from readers, family, and friends. This release feels like a milestone in my writing career, and I’m excited for readers to experience this new chapter.

3. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your first book 'Shadow of the Past'. For readers who haven’t yet had the chance to read it, could you briefly summarize how 'A Glimpse of the Future' continues the story?
A. Thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoyed Shadow of the Past. That book was about three people grappling with the emotional baggage of their past, dealing with love, loss, and personal identity. It explored how our experiences shape us, often forcing us to confront unresolved emotions to move forward.
"A Glimpse of the Future" picks up the threads from where Shadow of the Past left off, but it goes deeper into the lives of the characters—Rehan, Lavanya, Arpita, and Namrata. This time, the focus shifts toward mental health, trauma, and the journey toward self-discovery and redemption.
Rehan, who was struggling to find closure in the first book, now faces anxiety, depression, and inner demons that threaten to consume him. His story is about finding strength amidst darkness—discovering that the only way out of suffering is by confronting it head-on. Lavanya, once full of life, finds herself fighting breast cancer, while Arpita becomes entangled in betrayal and deceit. Namrata remains a beacon of optimism but quietly battles her own struggles, offering strength to others.
Where Shadow of the Past was about coping with the past, A Glimpse of the Future is about navigating the present struggles and finding hope for the future. It’s a story of how life throws challenges at us, but through resilience and human connection, we can find the light we are all searching for.
Readers can expect a more emotionally charged narrative, with deeper explorations of mental health, personal battles, and the fragile, yet powerful, nature of human relationships. It’s both a continuation and an evolution of the themes from the first book, offering a compelling and transformative reading experience.

4. What inspired you to write this sequel? Was the continuation always part of your plan, or did it come to you after the success of Shadow of the Past?
A. Honestly, there was no plan to write a sequel. When I initially wrote Shadow of the Past, it was meant to be a standalone book. I had envisioned the story to have a different ending, but while writing, I decided to experiment with the conclusion, leaving it as a cliffhanger. This open-ended finish was more of an artistic choice—I thought it would leave room for interpretation, allowing readers to form their own conclusions.
To my surprise, the response to Shadow of the Past was overwhelming. Readers connected with the characters and their journeys far more deeply than I had anticipated. Many reached out, expressing their thoughts, sharing their interpretations, and—more importantly—asking questions about what happens next. That’s when I realized there was more to the story that needed to be told. The characters still had unfinished business, and the readers deserved to know how things would unfold. The demand and curiosity from the audience inspired me to sit down and continue the narrative with A Glimpse of the Future. This book not only answers the lingering questions but also delves deeper into mental health, resilience, and redemption, themes that became clearer to me after reflecting on the first book.
Writing the sequel felt like a natural progression—not just for the characters but also for me as an author. It was an opportunity to explore their growth, struggles, and emotional journeys in a way that the first book couldn’t fully encapsulate. I’m grateful for the readers who pushed me to take this step, as it allowed me to offer closure, both for the characters and for those who followed their stories.

5. What have you found to be most challenging about writing?
A. For me, the biggest challenge is getting into the right zone and mindset. My writing process is deeply rooted in emotions, and it’s essential that I feel everything my characters are experiencing. To do justice to the story, I need to immerse myself in their world—whether it's their struggles, joys, fears, or triumphs. It’s not just about writing; it’s about living those emotions.
This immersion takes time. It took me two years to write Shadow of the Past and four years to finish A Glimpse of the Future. Throughout those years, I found myself completely engrossed in the lives of my characters. At times, I even started behaving like them, slipping into their thoughts and emotions. As strange as it sounds, I believe that’s what it takes to create characters that feel authentic and relatable—characters readers can connect with on a deeper level.
Another challenge has been balancing my writing with a full-time job as a creative marketer. Writing demands focus and emotional investment, while my professional role requires a different kind of creativity and structure. Juggling between the two can be overwhelming at times, and it requires careful time management. But in the end, I find that both pursuits feed into each other—the creativity from marketing adds fresh perspectives to my writing, and the emotional depth from storytelling helps me bring authenticity to my work.
These challenges, though demanding, have also been rewarding. They’ve shaped my journey as a writer, teaching me patience, persistence, and the importance of embracing the process—no matter how difficult it gets.

6. What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
A. There’s no fixed timeline for research—it’s an ongoing process that continues throughout the writing journey. It all starts with an idea, but to explore that idea in-depth, I immerse myself in books, movies, and other stories within the same genre. For instance, while working on A Glimpse of the Future, I read books like Eleanor Oliphant's Is Completely Fine and watched films dealing with mental health. This helps me understand how other authors tackle similar themes in their unique way and inspires me to find my own USP to ensure my work stands apart, rather than being a repetition of what has already been done.
Since A Glimpse of the Future delves deeply into mental health issues, the research became even more personal. I spent time reading about various mental health disorders and interviewing psychiatrists, psychologists, and individuals dealing with these issues. It was crucial to approach the subject with sensitivity, empathy, and accuracy, ensuring that even though it is a work of fiction, it does not portray a misleading or harmful representation.
This book is especially close to my heart because I’ve faced mental health challenges myself. Writing it felt like sharing a part of my soul with the world. It was not just about telling a story—it was about creating a space for empathy and raising awareness around mental well-being. In a way, the research wasn’t just academic; it was personal introspection as well.
Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that the story is authentic and relatable, and that requires continuous learning and reflection throughout the process. Each piece of research shapes the narrative, allowing me to do justice to the characters and the issues they face.

7. Do you have a favourite character from your own works? If so, what makes them unique to you?
A. For me, all the characters in my books are special in their own way because they’ve all originated from my mind. In a sense, each of them reflects a part of me or my imagination. However, if I had to choose, I’d say Arpita from Shadow of the Past and Namrata from A Glimpse of the Future hold a particularly special place in my heart.
What makes both these characters stand out is their complexity and relatability. Arpita, from my first book, resonates with the idea that even the most reliable and grounded individuals can stumble. She is a reminder that it’s okay to falter, and the strength lies in how we navigate our way back. Similarly, Namrata in A Glimpse of the Future embodies optimism and emotional strength, yet she, too, battles her own inner demons. Through her, I explore the idea that even those who seem the strongest on the outside are not immune to life’s challenges.
Both characters reflect the nuances of human emotions—the highs and lows that we all experience. Their journeys are not just about overcoming obstacles but also about accepting vulnerability and finding resilience in the face of life’s unpredictability. This is a theme that I find deeply personal because I believe it mirrors real life—where even the best of us can fall, and that’s perfectly okay.
In a way, writing these characters has been therapeutic for me. They’ve allowed me to explore emotional truths and present a narrative that feels both authentic and meaningful. Watching readers connect with them makes the whole process even more rewarding.

8. Writing compelling dialogue is an art. What’s your approach to writing authentic, engaging dialogue between characters?
A. For me, authentic dialogue is about capturing the natural flow of conversation, which means it has to reflect the unique personalities, emotions, and backgrounds of the characters involved. When I write dialogue, I focus not just on what is being said but also on what’s left unsaid—the pauses, hesitations, and underlying emotions that give words their real meaning.
I approach dialogue as if I’m putting myself into the minds of my characters. I need to feel what they’re feeling, understand their motivations, and think the way they would in that moment. That’s why getting into the right zone and mindset is crucial for me. It’s important that the words come naturally from the characters rather than feeling forced or contrived. At times, I even find myself speaking aloud in their voices—it helps me gauge if the conversation sounds natural and engaging.
Another key aspect is staying true to each character’s voice. Everyone speaks differently—whether it’s their choice of words, tone, or how much they reveal through dialogue. A character like Rehan might express himself through hesitation and introspection, while someone like Namrata might use words as a way to comfort or inspire. Their dialogues are shaped by their personalities and emotional states.
I also strive to ensure that the dialogue serves the story. Every conversation should either reveal something new about the character, move the plot forward, or create emotional depth. I avoid small talk unless it serves a larger purpose. Dialogue should feel meaningful, even if it’s subtle.
Lastly, when dealing with sensitive topics like mental health, I’m careful to maintain empathy and accuracy. I want the characters' words to reflect not just their struggles but also a sense of hope and realism. This means ensuring that dialogue feels both genuine and respectful, especially when it touches on themes that might resonate with readers on a personal level.
To me, writing dialogue is like bringing characters to life—it’s in their conversations that they become relatable, flawed, and, ultimately, real.

9. Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
A. Yes, I read every single review, whether it’s good, bad, or somewhere in between. I’m very open to criticism, and even if someone trolls me, I take it in stride. In fact, when a few readers labelled my first book as “the worst book ever” or something along those lines, I thanked them. At the end of the day, they bought the book, took the time to read it, and then wrote a review—that’s quite an effort in itself, and I appreciate that.
I’ve come to realize that you can’t please everyone, and if you focus only on the bad reviews, you’ll never find joy in the good ones. My approach is to embrace all feedback, knowing that every reader has their own perspective. Some will love your work, while others may not connect with it—and that’s okay. It’s important to stay realistic and recognize that criticism is a natural part of the creative process. If you’re not open to different viewpoints, you limit your growth as a writer.
When I first started, bad reviews would make me feel disappointed or sad. But over time, I’ve learned to detach a bit from the feedback. My role is to write the stories I believe in, and once they’re out in the world, I have to let them take their natural shape. Whether people love or dislike them, the process of storytelling itself is what I value the most.
At the end of the day, you can’t let the fear of “log kya kahenge” (what will people say) stop you from doing what you love. I’ve realized that my passion for writing far outweighs any negativity I encounter. And honestly, the good reviews make the journey sweeter, but the bad ones keep me grounded and humble—both are necessary for growth.

10. How do you handle the challenges of writer’s block or moments of doubt during the writing process?
A. Writer’s block is something every writer encounters, and I’ve had my fair share of those moments. When it happens, I try not to force creativity. Taking breaks, switching gears, or engaging in other activities like cooking or photography helps reset my mind. Sometimes, just sitting with the characters or re-reading parts of my manuscript helps me reconnect with the story.
Doubt is inevitable too—especially when you’re in the middle of a book and wonder, “Will this connect with readers?” or “Is this even worth it?” In those moments, I remind myself of why I started writing in the first place: because I love telling stories. Writing Shadow of the Past took two years, and A Glimpse of the Future took four years. The process is long, and doubts come and go. I’ve learned to trust the journey and know that the story will take shape in its own time.

11. When you’re not writing, what do you enjoy reading? Do you have any favourite genres or authors who inspire you?
A. I enjoy reading across genres because it offers fresh perspectives. However, I have a special affinity for psychological fiction, drama, and stories that explore the complexities of human emotions—the same themes I explore in my own work. Books like Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine have been inspiring, especially while working on A Glimpse of the Future. I also love immersing myself in Paulo Coelho and Khaled Hosseini's works; their narratives resonate with me on a personal level because of their depth and emotional honesty.
Each book I read teaches me something new—whether it’s about style, structure, or storytelling. Sometimes, a well-written character or a memorable line stays with me long enough to influence my writing. Reading is not just about enjoyment for me; it’s also an extension of my creative process.

12. How do you maintain a connection with your readers, and how does their feedback impact your work?
A. Connecting with my readers is incredibly important to me. I use platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook to stay engaged. I love hearing from readers—whether they leave a review, send me a message, or tag me in a post. Their feedback offers both inspiration and perspective. Sometimes, the positive reviews remind me why I write, and other times, constructive criticism helps me improve and grow as an author.
One of the things that inspired me to write A Glimpse of the Future was reader feedback. When Shadow of the Past ended on a cliffhanger, many readers reached out, eager to know what happens next in the characters’ journeys. Their curiosity made me realize that the story wasn’t complete—it needed to continue and evolve. Their involvement was essential in shaping this sequel.
Even negative feedback plays a crucial role. It keeps me grounded, reminding me that not every story will resonate with everyone—and that’s okay. Growth lies in being open to all kinds of feedback. For me, it’s not just about meeting expectations but also about creating meaningful experiences for the readers who connect with my work.
At times, the response can be overwhelming, but I make it a point to respond to everyone who messages me. When I was starting out, I would reach out to established authors, but very few replied to my messages. I decided then that if I ever became an established author, I wouldn’t be like that. Readers make writers, and I feel it’s my responsibility to engage with and support everyone who connects with my work. Whether it’s a reader expressing their appreciation or someone seeking advice, I respond because it’s the right thing to do.

13. Do any of the characters or scenes in your books draw inspiration from real-life experiences or people?
A. Yes, several scenes and characters in my books are inspired by my own personal experiences. One scene in A Glimpse of the Future is particularly close to my heart. It reflects my own struggles with anxiety—a moment when Rehan is chatting with Namrata. As he types a message, he keeps deleting and rewriting it, afraid of how it will be judged. In the end, he responds in monosyllables, unable to express what he truly feels. This scene is a reflection of what I’ve gone through—those moments of self-doubt and fear of judgment that make communication difficult.
There are many other subtle instances in my writing where my personal battles with mental health have found their way into the narrative. Writing these scenes was like reliving those experiences, but it also became a form of therapy. I’ve tried to channel those emotions into the characters’ journeys in a way that readers can relate to, especially those who may have faced similar struggles.
I would also like to make a heartfelt appeal to everyone reading this: Please read A Glimpse of the Future. It’s more than just a sequel—it’s a piece of my soul, written with the hope that it will resonate with anyone who has ever felt misunderstood, judged, or trapped in their thoughts.

14. How do you balance your writing schedule with your personal life? Do you follow any particular routines or methods to stay organized and inspired?
A. To be honest, I am still figuring out how to create a proper routine and maintain balance. It’s not something I’ve mastered yet, and I struggle with it quite a bit. Writing demands a lot of emotional and mental investment, and juggling it with my full-time job as a creative marketer can feel overwhelming at times. I’m learning as I go and trying my best to find a rhythm that works, but I have to admit that I’m not the most disciplined person when it comes to balancing everything.
What keeps me going is my love for writing—that’s the part that inspires me to keep trying. On some days, I write late at night when the world is asleep, while on other days, I might take a break to recharge. I think the key is to be kind to yourself and not force creativity. I’ve learned to embrace the messiness of the process while striving toward a more balanced lifestyle.
I also try to stay connected with activities that inspire me—whether it’s reading, traveling, cooking, or photography. These activities not only help me unwind but also fuel my creativity in unexpected ways. My goal is to reach a point where I can organize my writing schedule better without compromising other parts of my life, but it’s very much a work in progress.
What I’ve realized is that balance isn’t about perfection; it’s about finding joy in both the writing journey and personal life, even when things feel chaotic. I’m striving to improve every day, and that’s all part of the process.

15. What are your favourite literary journals? Please share some of your favourite books with our readers.
A. I enjoy reading from a wide variety of sources and literary journals. While Aleph is one of my favourite platforms for insightful and thought-provoking literature, I also love exploring other avenues for unique perspectives and new ideas. Literary journals are a great way to stay connected with contemporary voices, emerging talent, and timeless works.
When it comes to books, I have quite a long list of favourites! Some of the ones that have had a profound impact on me include:
• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho – A powerful story about dreams, destiny, and self-discovery.
• A Thousand Splendid Suns, The Kite Runner, and And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini – His works delve into the human condition, relationships, and resilience in the face of suffering.
• Eleven Minutes and Veronica Decides to Die by Paulo Coelho – Both books explore themes of love, self-acceptance, and finding purpose.
• The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides – A gripping psychological thriller with fascinating layers of human emotion and suspense.
• Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman – A touching story that tackles loneliness, mental health, and human connection.
• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn – An intense, dark exploration of relationships and deceit.
• Yellowface by R.F. Kuang – A sharp commentary on cultural appropriation in the literary world.
• Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl – An inspiring book about finding meaning through suffering.
Each of these books has shaped my worldview and influenced my own storytelling. They offer a range of narratives—exploring love, loss, redemption, and mental health, which are themes I resonate with and often explore in my own work.

16. Where do you get your ideas for your books?
A. That’s probably the toughest question to answer, even for me! Honestly, I don’t always know where the ideas come from—they just seem to appear as flickers in my mind. My habit of overthinking helps me turn those flickers into fully-formed ideas. I’ll focus on them, explore every angle, and eventually, they begin to take shape. A lot of these ideas come when I’m walking on the road, traveling, or just observing the world around me.
Sometimes, I’ve even had dreams that gave me a vision or a glimpse of something that later became the seed of a story. But the process is not structured—it feels more like a natural flow that comes at random moments. I believe inspiration finds us in unexpected ways, and the key is to stay open and aware when it arrives.
In a way, I think every story is waiting to be told, and I just happen to catch it when it crosses my path. Traveling, meeting new people, and listening to their stories also inspire me a lot. But to be honest, there’s no formula. Some ideas arrive suddenly, others grow slowly over time. I guess I just trust the process and let the ideas find me.

17.Please tell us what you enjoy most about writing. What is your favourite part of being a writer?
A. What I enjoy most about writing is the freedom to create entire worlds and bring characters to life. It’s a way for me to explore emotions, relationships, and experiences—not just from my own perspective, but through the minds and hearts of my characters. There’s something magical about starting with a blank page and watching a story unfold one word at a time.
One of my favourite parts of being a writer is when the characters take on a life of their own. Sometimes, they behave in ways I didn’t plan, or their emotions surprise me. It feels as though I’m discovering the story along with them, rather than just writing it. These moments make the process exciting and remind me why I love storytelling.
I also enjoy how writing allows me to connect with readers on a personal level. When someone reads my work and tells me that they related to a character or found comfort in the story, it’s incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about putting words on paper; it’s about creating a space where readers can reflect, feel, and connect.
Additionally, writing gives me the chance to work through my own thoughts and emotions. It’s almost like therapy—an opportunity to express what I might not be able to say otherwise. Whether it’s joy, sadness, hope, or fear, writing allows me to capture the essence of those feelings and offer them to others in the form of a story.
Ultimately, my favourite part of being a writer is the freedom to imagine and create something meaningful—something that has the potential to touch someone’s life, even in a small way. Knowing that a story I wrote might resonate with someone or give them a moment of solace is what makes all the challenges of writing worth it.

18. Trauma and mental health are prominent topics in both books. What steps did you take to ensure an authentic portrayal of these sensitive subjects in "A Glimpse of the Future"?
A. Portraying mental health and trauma authentically was very important to me because these themes are not just storytelling elements—they reflect real struggles that many people, including myself, face. I wanted to ensure that the characters' experiences were accurate, sensitive, and empathetic, while also offering hope and insight.
To do this, I took several steps:
Personal Experience: Having dealt with mental health issues myself, I drew on my own experiences with anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. Writing about these struggles was personal for me—it felt like sharing a part of my soul. This authenticity allowed me to convey emotions truthfully without embellishment.
Research and Reading: I spent a lot of time reading books, articles, and research papers on mental health topics. Stories like Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine gave me a better understanding of how other authors explore similar themes. I also read about specific disorders to make sure the portrayal was accurate and respectful, not stereotypical or dismissive.
Consulting Experts and Real Stories: I interviewed psychiatrists, psychologists, and people who have experienced various mental health issues. It was essential for me to understand their perspectives and ensure that the characters’ struggles didn’t feel forced or exaggerated. I wanted the narrative to resonate with real-life experiences.
Empathy and Sensitivity: When writing about trauma and mental health, I was mindful not to sensationalize or reduce these topics to plot devices. I wanted readers to feel the weight of the characters' emotions while also seeing light at the end of the tunnel. The goal was to create a safe space for reflection, not just drama.
Balancing Fiction with Accuracy: While this is a work of fiction, I was careful to ensure that the story didn’t portray a misleading picture of mental health. The characters' journeys reflect the complex realities of healing—it’s not linear, but it’s possible with support and inner strength.
Ultimately, my hope is that A Glimpse of the Future offers not just a compelling story but also encourages readers to engage with conversations about mental health. If even one reader feels understood or inspired by the characters’ journeys, I will consider my job well done.

19. What message or feeling do you hope readers will take away from ‘A Glimpse of the Future’?
A. At its core, A Glimpse of the Future is a story about hope, resilience, and self-discovery. Through the journeys of Rehan, Lavanya, Arpita, and Namrata, I wanted to convey that even in the darkest moments, there is always a flicker of light—a way forward, even if it’s hard to see at first. Life throws challenges at all of us, and the idea I hope readers take away is that the only way out of darkness is through it.
The book explores mental health, trauma, and emotional battles, and I hope it offers readers a sense of comfort and validation—that it’s okay to struggle and stumble along the way. Everyone’s healing journey is different, and it’s important to recognize that it’s okay not to be okay at times.
More than anything, I want readers to feel that they are not alone in their battles. Just as the characters find strength in each other and within themselves, I want the readers to walk away with the belief that support exists, both internally and externally. Whether it’s through personal reflection, relationships, or seeking help, there is always a way to move forward.
If there’s one feeling I hope lingers with readers, it’s hope—the idea that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always a way to find light within yourself. The characters in this book don’t have perfect endings, but they learn to live with their scars and find peace in the process. That’s the message I hope resonates with everyone who reads it: your struggles don’t define you; how you rise from them does.

20. Share some advice for aspiring authors. What advice would you give to your younger self?
A. To my younger self, I would say: experience life fully, just the way it comes. Every high, every low, every success, and every failure—embrace it all. Even if I had the chance to relive my life, I wouldn’t change a thing, because all the experiences I’ve faced have shaped me into the person I am today, and I genuinely like this version of myself.
There were times when I felt lost, dejected, defeated, or misunderstood, and back then, it seemed like those moments would never pass. But looking back, I can see that each of those experiences taught me something valuable—whether it was resilience, empathy, or just the ability to keep going. So, I would tell my younger self, “Don’t worry. One day you will look back and be grateful for even the toughest moments.”
To aspiring authors, my advice is: trust the process. Writing is a journey filled with uncertainties and self-doubt, but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding. There will be moments when you feel stuck or question your abilities, but keep going. Write stories that mean something to you, stories that reflect what you feel strongly about. Even if you’re writing for a small audience, your voice matters.
Don’t be afraid of rejection or criticism—they are part of the path to growth. Every writer starts somewhere, and you’ll improve with every word you write. Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Write because it brings you joy, and don’t let fear of judgment hold you back. And remember, there’s no right or wrong way to tell a story—just your way.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the generous time you’ve shared with me. Our conversation about your journey as an author and the recent release of A Glimpse of the Future has been genuinely inspiring and a privilege to experience.
As you embark on new literary endeavours, please accept my warmest wishes for continued success. I have every confidence that your unique perspective and mastery of storytelling will continue to captivate and profoundly impact readers, just as it has for me. Your contributions to literature will undoubtedly leave a lasting, indelible mark.
I would like to thank you again for sharing your valuable insights and for taking the time to participate in this enlightening exchange. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey and I look forward to seeing your work will enrich the literary world.

Connect With Author Mayank Manohar:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonofmountain_22/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mayankmanohar22

X: https://x.com/mayankm22

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayank-manohar-a72422101

Click here for the review of "Shadow Of The Past"

Click here for the review of "A Glimpse Of The Future"