The Final Puzzle was the winner in the HISTORICAL FICTION category of the 2023 IndieReader Discovery Awards, where undiscovered talent meets people with the power to make a difference.
Following find an interview with author Juhi Ray.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
The Final Puzzle was published in Dec 2019.
What’s the book’s first line?
“The pleasing sounds of wind chimes jolted Padshah Akbar, Emperor of Hindustan, back to his camouflage efforts.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
When an incomplete astrological chart with a hidden message threatening the emperor’s life is discovered, his close friend and brilliant advisor embarks on a journey to uncover its mystery. During this trip, the unhappily married advisor meets a warrior princess, forcing him to choose between loyalty to the emperor and love.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
I grew up reading Akbar Birbal stories in children’s cartoon books. One night after putting my daughter to bed with one of these stories, I decided to look up Birbal. One sentence about Birbal’s death caught my eye. “ He was killed by his enemies, but his body was never found.” I had to find out more. Was Birbal killed or did he disappear?
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
Akbar and Birbal are both protagonists although the story focuses on Birbal’s life. Birbal is exceptionally intelligent and talented as a writer, singer and uses his wit to solve problems. However, his kindness to the poor and loyalty to the emperor are his two outstanding qualities.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
Although fictional, several events described in the novel are lesser known facts this book provides a glimpse into a lesser known aspect of Indian history. What is amazing is that these events are just as pertinent today as they were five hundred years ago.
If they made your book into a movie, who would you like to see play the main character(s)?
Alas, I do not have casting skills. When I see some movies’ cast, I am amazed at how the casting director could see an actor in a role I could never have done.
When did you first decide to become an author?
In first grade.
Is this the first you’ve written?
This is my debut novel.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I am an oncologist.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
3-4 hours per week at least.
What’s the best and the hardest part of being an indie?
Control over timeline.
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
Probably. For the experience.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
Entertaining and inspiring those who have read the story. Leaving the reader with something to ponder about.