What are you working on next?
My lastest book that I am trying to complete is titled 'The Last Bastion of Ingei'. My one-line summary is about a group of conservation activists who are exploring the 'Ingei' tropical jungle sanctuary and face an ancient enemy, where their salvation lies in the other 'world'. This story is based on a number of true stories in Borneo, and urban myths. One such story is about a soldier who was lost in the jungle of 'Labi' for over 23 days. The search party never found him, but he was found under a house in the next district - which is apparently impossible to reach even within 23 days. Malnourished and displaced, he claims he was trapped in a 'Bunian' village - a village that is not of this world.
There are a number of similar stories from soldiers and civilians of different nationalities, which makes this story very interesting. We talk about it, but very few have documented anything about it.
What is your writing process?
Believe me, I've tried writing during the day time. It's really hard, the world just seems so noisy. I am a night writer - to be precise a midnight writer. Reminder, do not feed this GREMLIN after midnight. Usually, throughout the day, I get ideas on what to write for the night especially when I drive long distances. Plots come out and I do get angry and shout to myself or even cry whilst driving. I know, i know this could easily turn into road rage. Once I get home, I usually reflect upon the day's happenings. I love to recall my patients and their stories. I would jot down their names during clinic - which would trigger my thoughts about them later at night.
I reckon the secret to smooth writing involves the right amount (and type) of caffeine and the right kind of playlist (music) - which is usually anything from dance, electronic or jazz fusion.
In the morning, I would read what I've written, which I hope doesn't involve a massive rewrite.
Read more of this interview.