Finally completed! Our colleague published her debut book

Finally completed! Our colleague Agastya Silvina , both a Researcher and Senior Software Developer, and a passionate author in her free time, has just published her debut book "The Runaway: Drifter and Defenders". The IT expert, originally from Indonesia, discusses her motivations and explains why relocating to Hagenberg was crucial for this book project in the interview. ?

How did you come up with ideas for your book?

During a casual conversation about 'free-will' with a friend, he once told me, "Let's say, hypothetically, I perfectly cloned you, and put you and the clone in the same situation to see if you choose option 'a' or 'b'. I don't think both you and your clone will necessarily make the same choice." The answer to this philosophical question may possibly be found within the pages of the book.

For how long had the idea of writing a book been on your mind?

Quite some time, maybe a few years.

Is it entirely fiction, or does it incorporate elements of reality? (e.g., characters, landscapes)

The characters were entirely fictional, but the setting was heavily influenced by the cities of Edinburgh and St. Andrews, as well as various locations in Ireland. It's no surprise, given that I lived there for nearly a decade.

What motivated you to embark on writing a book?

Well, I want to be brave. They said writing is like going outside with your whole body naked.

Is working in the technical field or the realm of science a source of motivation for you, or do you view writing as a means to relax and unwind?

I find the writing process very relaxing and enjoyable, especially after a tiring day at work. But the editing? That's another story...

Oh, and let's not forget Hagenberg. Being in Hagenberg during winter is like finding a magical land at the back of my closet... only instead of meeting a faun, I end up writing more. Seems the White Witch stole my social life XD.

How long did it take you to publish your book and from where did you get help?

My flatmate was a tremendous help during the initial writing phase. Jessica K and Anna E. reviewed several chapters of my early draft. Later on, I hired a professional editor to finalize the manuscript.

Have you plans for the next book? Will it be a serious of books?

I'm plotting to master German—mostly because when I gaze at the Hagenberg sky, it's so blue I feel like yodeling! Well... if I ever pen another book, I want to write something completely different. Already got a title in mind: "A Girl Who Cries in B#". Bet she's tone-deaf like me!

Find the book here: https://www.amazon.de/Runaway-Drifter-Defenders-English-ebook/dp/B0CDQK3YCT/