- January 22, 2025
Sreeranjan Menon T Talks About His Book “Operation Black Lotus: Espionage, Betrayal & Conspiracy”
About the Author:
Sreeranjan Menon T is an Assistant Professor in Management, with a rich background shaped by his upbringing in a family with deep ties to the Indian defense services. His father, a retired Indian Airforce officer, and his mother, a retired professor, instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, intellectual curiosity, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. These formative experiences have greatly influenced Sreeranjan’s perspectives, particularly his keen interest in international diplomacy, espionage, politics, and strategy. A passionate chess player, Sreeranjan applies the meticulous planning, strategic thinking, and foresight developed on the chessboard to his intellectual pursuits and storytelling. This love for strategy and tactical decision-making is evident in his writing, where every plot twist and character move is carefully thought out, leaving readers on the edge of their seats.This novel marks his entry into the world of fiction writing.
Exclusive interview with the author
Q: What Inspired You To Write This Book?
A: Growing up in a defense family, I was always surrounded by stories of valor, strategy, and the intricate webs of loyalty and duty. My father’s career in the Indian Air Force gave me an early glimpse into the discipline and challenges of national service, while my mother’s background in Sociology provided insights into the complexities of human relationships and societal structures. These influences sparked my fascination with espionage—the perfect blend of strategy, human psychology, and high-stakes drama. Through Operation Black Lotus, I wanted to explore themes of betrayal, conspiracy, and resilience in a world where the truth is often obscured. The book is a culmination of my passion for storytelling and my desire to honor the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to safeguard nations.
Q: Can You Tell Us About The Book?
A: Operation Black Lotus: Espionage, Betrayal & Conspiracy is a high-stakes espionage thriller that delves into the shadowy world of intelligence and counterintelligence. The story follows Aarav Menon a skilled operative of India tasked with unraveling a dangerous conspiracy that threatens national security. Along the way, they must navigate a labyrinth of betrayal, shifting alliances, and moral dilemmas. The book combines the adrenaline rush of covert operations with the emotional depth of characters who grapple with trust, duty, and personal sacrifice. It’s set against a backdrop of international intrigue, blending real-world geopolitics with fictional scenarios to create a gripping narrative. I’ve aimed to craft a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats while also offering a thought-provoking look at the human cost of espionage. It’s more than just a spy story; it’s a tale of courage, loyalty, and the complexities of serving a cause greater than oneself.
Q: What Does The Title Mean?
A: The title Operation Black Lotus is rich in symbolism and intrigue. The “Black Lotus” represents something rare, mysterious, and highly valuable, yet shadowed by danger and secrecy. In the story, it’s a metaphor for the operation’s objectives complex, elusive, and fraught with peril. The term “Operation” signals the military and intelligence-driven aspect of the narrative, reflecting the covert mission that lies at the heart of the plot. Together, the title encapsulates the central themes of the book: an enigmatic mission, the allure of forbidden knowledge, and the sacrifices required to achieve success in the face of overwhelming odds. It sets the tone for a story that is both action-packed and deeply layered with meaning.
Q: What Did You Learn When Writing The Book?
A: Writing Operation Black Lotus was a journey of discovery. I learned the importance of balancing creativity with research to create a believable and compelling story. It deepened my appreciation for the complexities of espionage and geopolitics and taught me how to craft characters that feel real, with their strengths, flaws, and motivations. On a personal level, I learned the value of perseverance there were moments of doubt, but pushing through them was immensely rewarding. Writing Operation Black Lotus also reinforced how storytelling can illuminate universal themes like trust, sacrifice, and resilience, even within a fictional narrative.
Q: How Did Publishing Your First Book Change Your Process Of Writing?
A: Publishing my first book was a transformative experience. It taught me the importance of discipline, structure, and persistence in writing. Before publication, I wrote mostly for myself, but once I realized my work would reach a wider audience, I became more focused on clarity, pacing, and character development to ensure the story resonated with readers. The feedback from editors and readers was invaluable. It highlighted areas where I could improve, like refining dialogue or tightening plots, and gave me confidence in my strengths as a storyteller. Thanking Orange Books Publication for their excellent inputs. I also learned the importance of research and consistency making sure every detail in the narrative feels authentic and contributes to the larger story. Most importantly, it instilled a sense of responsibility. Writing isn’t just about telling a story; it’s about crafting an experience for readers. This realization has pushed me to plan more meticulously, edit more thoroughly, and always strive to deliver my best with each new project.
Q: How Important Is Research To You When Writing A Book?
A: Research is absolutely essential to my writing process. For Operation Black Lotus, it helped me create a realistic and immersive world by grounding the story in authentic details, from espionage techniques to geopolitical dynamics. Research not only adds credibility to the narrative but also sparks new ideas, enriching the plot and characters. Whether it’s studying historical events, military strategies, or cultural nuances, thorough research ensures the story resonates with readers while maintaining its authenticity.
Q: Do You Believe A Book Cover Plays An Important Role In The Selling Process?
A: Absolutely. A book cover is the first impression a reader gets, and it plays a crucial role in grabbing attention and sparking curiosity. A well-designed cover reflects the essence of the story, sets the tone, and helps the book stand out in a crowded market. For Operation Black Lotus, the cover was designed to evoke intrigue and tension, aligning with the themes of espionage and conspiracy. A strong cover doesn’t just attract readers it also conveys professionalism and encourages them to explore what lies within.
Q: What Advice Would You Give To Aspiring Authors?
A: Write with passion and authenticity tell the story you truly care about. Be disciplined and consistent; writing is as much about persistence as inspiration. Read widely, embrace feedback, and don’t shy away from editing it’s where your story comes to life. Learn about the publishing process and be patient with rejections; they’re steppingstones to growth. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and believe in your voice.
This book is published by OrangeBooks Publication. All rights are reserved with the author & the publisher.
