Author of The Devil in I, Aydin Guner, talks me through his background and how he came to create such an innovative and unique novel.
Tell me about how you came to define your writing style. What drew you towards thrillers?
I’d define my style as fast paced. A lot of people who have read The Devil In I have said they couldn’t put it down once they started reading. That was a planned intention. I’d say character development is a key trait too; I want the reader to connect with the characters on a deep level. After reading the book, a lot of people asked me if the characters were based on real people, have told me they know people just like Latasha, and have even accused me of being the Devil! It’s all good though, connecting with the characters is a key part of the reading experience.
What is your career background and how did you get into writing full time?
I’ve spent time in the banking sector in my professional career and have been writing since I was young. I used to write stories and do movie reviews. I had a very active imagination. I started writing my first book about 6 years ago, and it took 4 years to write. I was just so overwhelmed with the reception; it broke into the Amazon to 100 several times in the first few months. And yeah, I guess my life changed off the back of that.
Please tell me about The Devil in I. What do you think makes this book a gripping read?
I think what makes The Devil In I so gripping is it is written in the first person and the lead character is the Devil! I’m not sure if a book like that exists, it might do, but I haven’t seen it. You really get into the world of the Devil, how his mind works and how he perceives the world. He lives as a mid 20s Wall Street guy in New York and though he is the devil, he does have a vulnerable side.
He does some despicable things, but you read how he is suffering, almost bored of who he is. I think people will like this book because it’s fast paced, exciting, X-rated in places and, very unexpected! There’s twists and turns in this. As deceptive as the Devil is, this book will take you on that journey.
Are there any particular mediums or narrative troupes you like to use in your writing and why?
That’s a great question! I like to add as much description as possible and one thing I often focus on is the scent and smells of the people and the environment. For example, if the lead character meets a woman and is attracted to her, how does she smell? What is her perfume? Does she have a lot on? How does it make me feel? All of these questions I believe help absorb the reader into the story. Same with being in New York, what can you see, hear and smell on the subway? Crowds, beeping horns, splashing rain from the tyres, talking, sweat, aftershave, stomping feet: I like to really get involved with the senses.
What do you enjoy reading and how does this influence your writing?
I’ve always liked reading autobiographies. I like hearing things from the horse’s mouth. I like feeling like I’m in someone’s head and I try to understand their psyche.
One of my favourite books is American Psycho and that was written in the first person. As is my book The Devil In I. My second book, which will be out next year, will also be in the first person, so, I guess this is a style preference of mine.
If you could collaborate with anyone, living or dead, on a writing project, who would it be and why?
Stephen King or Brett Easton Ellis. Either of those two would be a dream come true.
Have you got any exciting new plans or projects coming up that you’d like to share with me?
Yeah absolutely, along with fiction I like writing psychology books. I have an ebook called Behind The Mask: An Introduction into Covert Narcissism. My new psychology book is out on November 28th and is called 10 Steps To Heal From Narcissistic Abuse. Narcissistic Abuse is a relatively unknown form of abuse but its essentially emotional abuse. Narcissists, or people with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, are bullies who attack you while hiding behind others; it’s a passive form of bullying that can literally ruin lives. It’s a fascinating subject and I’m confident a lot of people can identify with the topic. The book is perfect for beginners to the topic, or for those who are familiar with what narcissistic abuse is. You can pre-order the book on Amazon now at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B075NSV4W7/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_x_w2t1zbN6VNFXG
Are there any new books or writers that you are looking forward to in the future?
I’ll be honest; I haven’t been too connected with the latest scene. I’ve been so busy writing my own books, and have recently completed a screenplay for The Devil In I, I haven’t had time to see who’s out there. There are a lot of great writers out there though, doing great things.
Anything you’d like to add?
I just want to say thank you for all of the support and if you want to connect with me please message me on twitter at www.twitter.com/aydingguner66 . I’m always on there and read the messages. You can also link in with me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aydinguner66. Hope to hear from you. Thanks again for the support!
Many thanks to Aydin- it’s been a pleasure having you on The Dorset Book Detective.
The Dorset Book Detective 