On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Vidya Math discusses her new book, The Book of Gems, written as a sequel to The Book of Stamps, inspired by a desire to create a birthday present for her sister.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Vidya Math about her life and career, what inspired the story of her latest book release, The Book Of Gems, and her creative writing process.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
Hi, my name is Vidya Math and I am a magical fantasy & fiction author. I am also a dancer and poet/ songwriter.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
I first remember wanting to write a book when I was 7 years old.
When did you take a step to start writing?
I have always written, since my first introduction to creative writing as a child. While still at school, I wrote poetry. While at University the poetry took on a new addition of verse in the form of songwriting. Short stories and film scripts then ensued and finally, once I was settled into full-time work, books started to appear.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
My first book took 5 months to write, but it wasn’t published until around 14 years after it was written, as I hadn’t thought about publishing it till then.
How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?
My latest book, The Book of Gems, took 2.5 years to write. It was conceptualized 12 years before I started to write it. It is being published on 12th June 2025, which is 16 years from when it was first conceptualized.
Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write The Book Of Gems?
The Book of Gems is the sequel to my previous book, The Book of Stamps, but is also a standalone book. The Book of Stamps needed a sequel, which is how The Book of Gems came about. People who read The Book of Stamps all ask for a sequel, so I had to write one, but also wished to write one 😊
What were your biggest challenges with writing The Book Of Gems?
I work full time, so finding time to write it was a challenge.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
‘The Book of…’ series started because I wanted to make a birthday present for my sister. I had intended on writing a short story, but it turned into a book. Although the protagonist in the story is not based on my sister, I guess my inspiration to write the story was because of my sister.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
I actually don’t know where the antagonist came from – he just appeared from somewhere unexpectedly.
What is the inciting incident of The Book Of Gems?
There are several – some good, some not good. If I was to disclose a main inciting incident, I would be revealing an unforgiveable spoiler, so I will, instead, mention another one. The main character’s father is thinking of sourcing a suitor for his daughter, so he employs the help of a powerful, psychic lady. This changes the course of the main character’s life very unexpectedly.
What is the main conflict of The Book Of Gems?
The main conflict in the book relates to the fight between good and evil.
Did you plot The Book Of Gems in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
I tried to plot the book beforehand, but the book was having none of it, so the book got its own way in the end 😊
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did The Book Of Gems need?
The book did not need much editing – just a few grammar and punctuation tweaks. A proofreader was involved, but I carried out most of the proofreading myself.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
Go ahead and write it.
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
I am planning to write a book called The Journey. This will be a magical, fantasy book.
And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
Writing books is far more intensive than I could have imagined – particularly the proofreading. When I get my strength back, I’ll feel proud of the accomplishment 😊
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
The Book Of Stamps
Kindle: https://amzn.to/45T126g
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3PnSJtN
Publisher’s website: https://olympiapublishers.com/book/the-book-of-gems
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571725465021
YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/@vidyamath8907
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