Karthik Subramanya Talks About His Book “Obscura”

About the Author:

As a writer and creative strategist, I specialize in building immersive worlds that blend high-fantasy, mythology, and the complexities of time travel. My work is driven by a passion for multi-layered narrative development—from crafting original songs in Telugu, Hindi, and Sanskrit to designing intricate supernatural thrillers. With a professional background in AI safety and prompt engineering, I bridge the gap between technical precision and artistic storytelling. Whether I am developing multi-season sagas or exploring interactive fiction, my goal is to create evocative, genre-defying experiences that resonate across cultures and mediums.

Exclusive interview with the author

Q: What Inspired You To Write This Book?

A: I wanted to explore the terrifying concept of absolute control, not just physical power, but the psychological manipulation that can completely shatter a person’s sense of reality. The idea of the “Marionettist” came from thinking about an antagonist who doesn’t just attack from the outside, but instead pulls strings from within the shadows, turning a character’s own mind, past traumas, and memories into a battlefield.
I also wanted to delve deeply into the psychological aftermath of trauma. Characters like Victor, Vedant, Maria, and Amrutha are all dealing with unresolved pasts. I wanted to see how deep those scars run and what happens when people are pushed to the absolute brink of sanity, the “state of mad”, while trying to fight an enemy who always seems to be three steps ahead.
Ultimately, it’s a story about the fragility of peace, the complexity of human resilience, and the chilling realization that some secrets and dark forces are never truly buried.

Q: Can You Tell Us About The Book?

A: At its core, this is a deep dive into psychological warfare and the chilling concept of absolute control. The story isn’t just about external threats; it’s about an antagonist who pulls the strings from the shadows, transforming a person’s own mind, memories, and deep-seated traumas into a literal battlefield. That’s where the idea of the “Marionettist” came from, a force that turns people into pawns before they even realize they are playing a game.

Q: What Did You Learn When Writing The Book?

A: Not everything you think is easy is actually easy. Every hurdle buys you time to see what you can do better.

Q: How Long Does It Take You To Write A Book?

A: It’s my first book, and it took me 6-7 months to write it. I’ll say I’ve been making some tweaks here and there over the past few months.

Q: What Does Success Mean To You? What Is The Definition Of Success?

A: If you’re doing what you want to and you’re happy, you’re successful.

Q: What, In Your Opinion, Are The Most Important Elements Of Good Writing?

A: 1. Clarity: Express complex ideas in sharp, precise language so the reader never struggles to understand the meaning.
2. Emotional Resonance: Create a deep connection that moves the reader, leaving lingering thoughts or feelings long after the story ends.
3. Pacing and Tension: Control the narrative rhythm to hook the audience, build suspense, and drive engagement.
4. Authentic Voice: Establish a unique, consistent tone and worldview that differentiates the work and makes characters feel alive.
5. Structural Integrity: Ensure every scene, sentence, and plot point serves a distinct purpose to advance the core theme.

This book is published by OrangeBooks Publication. All rights are reserved with the author & the publisher.