Shabnam Minwalla on writing horror-mystery YA novels, dealing with in-house critics, and her love affair with the city of Mumbai!

Very few Indian authors have achieved as much success as Shabnam Minwalla has with her novels for young adults. Saira Zariwalla is Afraid is the latest  to become a smash hit and boy, does it pack a punch! This unputdownable book follows Saira Zariwalla as she tries to solve a mystery that hits very close to home. There is murder, intrigue, horror and everything is set in a place that feels like it is happening in your neighbourhood! In this episode of Tell Me A Story I chat with Shabnam Minwalla about what it takes to write a novel that is the perfect amount of horror and mystery to keep her readers on the edge of their seats. She reveals how her in-house critics play a huge role in her books and why she takes their critique very seriously. She also lets us in on why the city of Mumbai plays a prominent role in every one of her novels. This is one episode you simple can't miss! HIT PLAY NOW!  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ratigirish.substack.com