Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a fantasy author based in Dubai, though I grew up living between Massachusetts and Saudi Arabia. My degree is in International Relations. I love traveling and horror movies, and I’ve written two books.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
When I wrote Gunmetal Gods, I wanted to make a Middle Eastern Game of Thrones. So it’s inspired by Middle Eastern history — in particular the Ottoman Empire. Arabian Nights and the Shahnameh (Persian Book of Kings) are also big inspirations, as is A Song of Ice and Fire, of course.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Sometimes I write entire scenes as dialog and then fill in all the descriptions later. I feel it helps me avoid writer’s block.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Aside from what I already mentioned, the Dune series is a huge influence. My goal is to create something as profound, vivid, and enchanting as Dune.
What are you working on now?
Right now I’m working on Gunmetal Gods Book #2. It is still in the early stages, so I don’t have much to say about it, but it will be a challenge for me as I’ve never written a series before.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still looking for that best method, to be honest. Facebook seems like a winner, so far.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Writing is going to be one of the hardest things you’ll ever do, so be ready for a ton of mental anguish. It helps to be disciplined, as inspiration can only take you so far.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Always use your best ideas on your current work-in-progress, rather than saving them for the next project. You’ll always come up with more ideas when it’s time to write the next book.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading Promise of Blood by Brian McClellan. About half-way through and really enjoying the cool mix of magic and gunpowder.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Writing, of course! But really, there’s going to be a fair bit of marketing too. I want to take Gunmetal Gods as deep as I can, so I’m going to push for its success with every method there is.
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?
Can it be a tropical island instead?
Dune, Arabian Nights, Hyperion, The God of Small Things
Author Websites and Profiles
Zamil Akhtar Website
Zamil Akhtar Amazon Profile
Zamil Akhtar’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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