Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am Sohini Dutt, a graduate in the field of history and a literature buff since time immemorial. I belong to the beauteous state of Assam, India and I completed my graduation from New Delhi, India. I am a published WordPress blogger writing on a plethora of topics including poetry, research and travel. I have podcasts on a diverse range of topics that are currently streaming across six major social platforms including Spotify and Apple podcasting platforms.
I am a self-published author of a horror-thriller titled “The Cryptic Night of December” and the author of the e-book titled “The Ghastly Secret”, which is now available as an e-book and a paperback on Amazon. I also have two publications on the anthologies titled “Delusions” and “Ecstasy” which are scheduled to be launched on Amazon this month.
My love for writing and storytelling has always been immensely overwhelming and owing much to it, I have fortunately earned myself an international reading audience on my website as well as on social media.
I currently have published three books, that are mostly thrillers and fiction works. Over the last few months, I took out time to research and understand how can I make effective use of my short stories and poetry. I have always been a literature buff and though my field of specialization might seem contrasting, I have always loved indulging in creative pursuits, story-telling being one! After the unexpected success of my first book, “The Cryptic Night of December”, there was literally no stopping anymore. I’ve come a long way from writing countless stories sitting at a corner to getting my work out amidst readers.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my latest book is ‘The Ghastly Secret’. I had been receiving several requests from my readers to work on a novel, but given the fact that I am a student myself, I couldn’t really devote that much time to pen down a 56,000 word story. That is exactly why I settled for a novella instead and decided to work on something exciting. That’s when an idea struck my mind and I wanted to work on urban legends, local histories, crime and horror. One of my teachers wanted me to read on local histories and I believe that was a stimulant in helping me write this book.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well, I wont call them “unusual” but I’d definitely say writing has been my happy escape since time immemorial. I have never restricted my work to genres and I love to explore. Perhaps this is why I’ve written on science, authored travelogues, worked on mythology, penned down numerous poetry and even published articles. So yeah, if its about habits, then I’d rather say I have this “more like a usual” habit of penning down life experiences and imagination.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There have been so many! I don’t intend to offend any genre or judge any writer, for every field of work requires hard work and dedication. However, I genuinely admire those writers who work on thrillers, horror and crime. These works require you to do an exhaustive research, look for ways to make your story as engrossing as possible, and make the description so realistic that your audience connects with the characters. In in this line, I’d name authors like Vikram Seth, Satyajit Ray, Agatha Christie, Paulo Coelho, Dan Brown, Lee Child and Stieg Larsson.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a science fiction and a psychological thriller. I’ve been on the go for several articles, exhaustive research and comparing materials.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Honestly, I’m still on the lookout for websites but Some of the best ways would be to ask for review on Amazon and Goodreads, contact influencers, make a video trailer, create an author website and most importantly, offer giveaways!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice to new authors would be that one should always stay dedicated and consistent with their efforts and not cease to put in the extra hard work. If you research, every minute brings to you a new idea. Research and study is the key to writing quality. Consistency makes it better.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
That recognition is the most important when it comes to selling your books and to work for that recognition, one needs to be dedicated and sincere all throughout and be willing to give it the time that it needs.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins.
What’s next for you as a writer?
That would be a vague answer at the moment because I’m still on the go for newer avenues, new content, and most importantly, learning. I’ve believe there’s no end to learning and the more experience you gather, the best. And that is exactly what I’m doing right now; gathering experience!
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Well, that’s an interesting question! I’d opt for The Alchemist, The Zahir and Before I go to Sleep!
Author Websites and Profiles
Sohini SD Website
Sohini SD Amazon Profile
Sohini SD’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account