Shalom chizaram oluchi Interview

• Q. Can you tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to become a writer?

  Ans. I’m a Nigerian author with a passion for storytelling that reflects the raw emotions people hide behind silence. Writing is my way to inspire, heal, and connect. The Betrayal was born from observing how trust can break—and how secrets can shatter even the strongest bonds.

• Q. What genre(s) do you primarily write in, and what draws you to that particular genre?

  Ans. I write psychological thrillers and emotional fiction, especially stories centered around betrayal and personal redemption. I’m drawn to this genre because I love exploring what happens when people’s true motives are revealed—and how far someone will go when trust is broken.

• Q. What is your favorite book, and what about it resonates with you the most?

  Ans. Honestly, my favorite right now is my own novel, The Betrayal. Not just because I wrote it, but because it captures emotions I’ve lived and witnessed—pain, deceit, forgiveness. It’s a story that reminds me how even the people we trust the most can hurt us—and how healing often begins in the aftermath. -

• Q. Who is your favorite author, and how have they influenced your writing?

  Ans. 1 admire authors like Sidney Sheldon and Chinua Achebe. Sidney Sheldon inspired my love for suspense and unpredictable twists, while Achebe taught me how to ground a powerful story in culture and truth. Their storytelling made me believe that emotion and intrigue can live side by side on the page.

• Q. How do you balance writing with other aspects of your life, such as work, family, or hobbies?

  Ans. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned to write in small windows of time—early mornings, late nights, or whenever inspiration calls. Writing has become both an escape and a commitment. I treat it with the same respect I give to family, work, and my dreams.

• Q. How do you show appreciation and love to your followers and readers? Do you actively engage with them on social media or through other means?

  Ans. I love connecting with readers—whether through WhatsApp, Facebook, or direct messages. I often offer free copies, shout out their reviews, and reply to every message I get. I want readers to feel that their voice matters, because without them, my stories would have no meaning.

• Q. What do you enjoy most about being an author, and what keeps you motivated to continue writing?

  Ans. What I enjoy most is the way words give life to untold stories. Writing helps me transform emotions into something powerful and lasting. I'm motivated by the people my words can touch—the readers who see themselves in my characters and the healing that can come from being understood.

• Q. Have you ever faced writer's block, and if so, how do you overcome it?

  Ans. Yes, I’ve faced writer’s block plenty of times. When it hits, I step away and let life refuel me. A good walk, prayer, music, or talking with someone can reopen the creative door. I don’t force it—I let the story come back to me when it's ready.

• Q. Can you share any interesting or funny anecdotes from your writing journey?

  Ans. I once lost an entire chapter because my battery died and I hadn't saved anything! I was devastated—but when I rewrote it the next day, the scene turned out better than before. I’ve learned that even setbacks can create something stronger.

• Q. What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?

  Ans. Don’t wait for perfection. Just start. Every sentence is progress. And even if only one person connects with your story, it’s still worth writing. Tell the truth, write with your heart, and keep going—your voice matters.

• Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or works in progress that you'd like to share with your readers?

  Ans. Yes! I’m currently outlining a follow-up to The Betrayal—something just as intense but with a deeper focus on justice and redemption. I’m also working on a collection of short stories inspired by real emotional battles we all face.

• Q. Finally, what are your goals and aspirations as a writer? Where do you see yourself and your writing career in the future?

  Ans. I want to grow into an international author whose stories change lives. I see myself writing books that heal, spark thought, and leave a lasting impact. I dream of seeing my work turned into a film someday—and building a platform that inspires upcoming writers in Africa and beyond.

Share on Social Media