The idea for this book had been slowly crystallizing in my head for a couple of years. At some point, I felt a strong urge to share it with the world and committed to writing it down. The book was certainly influenced by my background in science and biotech.

Alex Rawecki – 26 July 2024

The Back Flap

In this fresh, action-filled thriller, a talented scientist is forced to unravel what happened to her memory while fighting for survival with assassins behind her back.

A young scientist, Nika Beresic, experiences an epileptic seizure and ends up in a hospital, where she discovers that her vivid dreams are more than just figments of her imagination. Unsure whether her mind is playing tricks on her or if she truly has a hidden past as a secret agent, she sets out to uncover the truth.

Her search leads her to plans for a revolutionary neurotech device that could change what science knows about the human brain. Before she can find out more about the device and a concealed project she seems to be part of, everyone involved suddenly falls silent.

Upon learning she is up against a much more powerful enemy, one who is willing to eliminate anybody deemed a liability, Nika realizes that revealing what happened to her becomes her only chance to make it out alive.

About the book

What is the book about?

My debut thriller novel, Zealous, is about a young scientist who experiences an epileptic seizure and ends up in a hospital, where she discovers that her vivid dreams are more than just figments of her imagination. She is forced to unravel what happened to her memory while fighting for survival with assassins behind her back.

When did you start writing the book?

I started exactly on January 1, 2023, adhering to my New Year’s resolution.

How long did it take you to write it?

It took me a little over a year to finish the book.

Where did you get the idea from?

The idea for this book had been slowly crystallizing in my head for a couple of years. At some point, I felt a strong urge to share it with the world and committed to writing it down. The book was certainly influenced by my background in science and biotech.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

Writing fiction is quite a demanding task for me, as I am more accustomed to technical, scientific language. It took a lot of self-discipline to stick to the daily word count goals I set for myself.

What came easily?

There were days when I felt inspired and the pages filled themselves with words. I very much enjoyed writing about science and technology.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

Some of my characters are entirely fictitious, while others have bits and pieces borrowed from people I know. I don’t think anyone I know would be able to recognize themselves in the book.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

I used to read a lot while growing up. My favorite books were thrillers by Michael Crichton and Robin Cook.

Do you have a target reader?

I believe that anyone who enjoys a good thrill and suspense should read my book.

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

I would split my writing experience into two phases that alternate regularly. In my productive phases, I write first thing in the morning and stick to the word count I set for myself. During the self-doubting phases, I don’t write at all. Despite not being productive, I usually get good ideas on how to improve the story.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

Despite being a very organized person, I have realized that outlining the whole book is such a complex task that it would take me weeks, if not months, of preparation. When writing, I consciously decide to suppress my inner perfectionist and simply put the story on paper one sentence at a time, and see what happens next.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

I do multiple rounds of editing, both during writing and after finishing the book.

Did you hire a professional editor?

No, I didn’t. I used an editing software.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

Sure, I always listen to music when I am writing. I like to listen to jazz and oldies rock.

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

Yes, I have submitted my manuscript to about 30 agents.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

One of the agents I submitted to was my ‘dream’ agent. She specifically said she likes to represent technothrillers and enjoys the same types of books as I do. When she declined to represent my manuscript, I decided to self-publish.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

I did the book cover myself.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

Yes, I do have a detailed plan. I enjoyed creating and executing it.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

It’s tough out there. However, I enjoy being responsible for everything in the publishing process.

End of Interview:

For more from Alex Rawecki visit his website and follow him on Twitter.

Get you copy of Zealous from Amazon US or Amazon UK.