Author Interview – Vidya Math – The Train Station Café & Other Stories

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, discover the heart behind the journey as Vidya Math discusses her latest release, The Train Station Café & Other Stories, and how embracing creativity can transform both the writer and the reader.

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

I interviewed Vidya Math, whose writing journey spans from childhood dreams to her latest, most personal release. From her decade-long journey to her first publication to her most recent “unplanned” surprise of a book, Vidya offers a refreshing perspective on why the act of sharing our stories—and the simple joy of a favorite pen on paper—is a blessing that connects us all to the world around us.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

Hi, my name is Vidya Math and I am a Scottish-born, Cambridge-based author.

When did you first WANT to write a book?

I first wanted to write a book when I was 7 years old

When did you take a step to start writing?

I started writing while I was still at primary school.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

My first book took several years from concept to release. It was written in 2008-2009 and released in 2022.

How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?

My latest book was conceptualised in August 2025 and was released in January 2026.

Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write The Train Station Café & Other Stories?

I was on an exciting journey that exhilarated me. During the course of the journey, I not only came across amusing and delicious situations, it reminded me of travels from the past. I wrote it all down to share with readers, so they could come on adventures with me.

What were your biggest challenges with writing The Train Station Café & Other Stories?

With this particular book, there were no challenges at all in writing it, but one chapter is very emotional, and I remember crying when writing it.

Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?

Myself, I guess and anyone who is on a journey.

Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?

The only antagonist in this book is the challenge of life itself.

What is the main conflict of The Train Station Café & Other Stories?

Work-life balance and the precious times we have when not affected by challenges at work.

Did you plot The Train Station Café & Other Stories in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?

This book was completely unplanned and arrived as a wonderful surprise.

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did The Train Station Café & Other Stories need?

This is the first book I fully edited myself.

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?

Savour every second of writing – whether it’s using your favourite pen, with your favourite colour of ink on your favourite notepad, or whether it’s the feeling of seeing the lives of your characters. The stories that happen in your heart are important and when you share them, they will be important to other people too. Even if you don’t share what you write with others, the process of writing develops you healthily as a person and this way, you can positively affect everything around you.

Creativity is a blessing. For example, if you write about your experiences with wildlife, people will fall in love with wildlife and be able to enjoy and help nature around them.

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

I am currently working on a fiction book. I started it as an experiment, but it has worked its way into my heart and become a story that gives me goosebumps every time I open my computer to work on it. I can’t wait to publish it for readers to enjoy.

And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

I feel very proud of the accomplishment. People who have read this book have said to me that they felt like they visited all the places described in the book and they loved the different journeys they went on while reading it..

Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

Kindle: https://amzn.to/3Pr0MJb

Paperback: https://amzn.to/4faWT5u

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4d1zCSh

Waterstones: https://www.waterstones.com/author/vidya-math/6089969