Memorial Day weekend has been the signal to start that summer reading list. I’ve got a great recommendation for you to download and take to the beach. It’s called Love and Longing by A. Iqbal. This author has impressed me with his scope of reading background to create thriller stories into romance. This isn’t your average romance. Turning love into a prison and trying to find a way out is a great hook for me. A. Iqbal goes into detail on how his inspirational authors influence his storytelling to bring a new take on a thriller romance.

1) Who was your favourite author and how did they influence you?
A. Iqbal: When it comes to my favorite authors, Stephen King and James Patterson have had a profound influence on me. Stephen King, known as the “Master of Horror,” has captivated readers for decades with his gripping storytelling and unforgettable characters. His ability to delve into the depths of the human psyche and explore themes of fear, love, and redemption has always fascinated me. King’s works, such as “The Shining,” “It,” and “The Stand,” have not only entertained me but also inspired me to explore the complexities of the human experience in my own writing.

2) What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?
A. Iqbal: I am particularly drawn to and would love to explore in my future writing projects. One of these subjects is the captivating world of treasure and archaeological finds. The allure of hidden riches, ancient artifacts, and the mysteries that surround them has always fascinated me.

Delving into the realm of treasure hunting and archaeological discoveries would allow me to weave together elements of adventure, history, and suspense. I would relish the opportunity to craft narratives that revolve around intrepid explorers embarking on thrilling quests to uncover long-lost treasures or unravel the secrets of ancient civilizations. The research involved in these projects would be both enriching and exhilarating, as I would have the chance to delve deep into historical records, archaeological theories, and explore the intricacies of different cultures.

3) Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.
A. Iqbal: Stay consistent and adaptable. Life can be unpredictable, and sticking to a rigid routine may not always be feasible. While having a routine is beneficial, it’s important to remain adaptable. If unexpected events disrupt your usual writing schedule, be flexible enough to find alternative times or methods to continue your creative work.

Book Blurb For Love and Longing:

Mia needs to get her life together. She had everything right on paper.

A great job, a beautiful house, excellent friends, and a ‘loving’ fiancé. But life isn’t what it seems on the outside.

What started as a perfect romance soon became a nightmare. Now she’s stuck in a rut, with a man who isn’t right for her at all. And she’s looking for a way out.

But will she find one?

Perhaps a handsome stranger with eyes as blue as the sky is exactly what she needs to help her realize that.

Love and longing brings you a heartwarming tale of how ‘love’ can imprison you, but true love can set you free.

***This short story is an introduction to the characters that will be appearing in A. Iqbal’s next book.

Love and Longing is available on Amazon.co.uk as a Kindle Unlimited title.

For more information on A. Iqbal, please visit his Amazon author page here.