A literary force poised to captivate readers once again with the highly anticipated release of the second part of their enthralling novel, "Vengeance: The Khan 2." With the first instalment leaving readers on the edge of their seats, Saima Mir returns to continue the saga, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of intrigue, adventure, and historical richness. As a master storyteller, Saima Mir weaves together a tapestry of vivid characters, sweeping landscapes, and gripping plotlines that will transport readers to a world of unparalleled depth and excitement.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Saima Mir spoke about the character evolution in the sequel of The Khan, representation of South Asian culture in the writing and advice for aspiring writers.
What inspired you to continue Jia Khan's story in "Vengeance: The Khan 2"? How has her character evolved since the first book?
In the second instalment of "The Khan," a striking evolution takes place, marked by a shift from raw anger to a deeper exploration of vengeance and justice. As the narrative unfolds side by side with the first book, readers will notice a transformation in the protagonist's character. While the initial instalment brimmed with fury and rage, the sequel delves into the nuanced journey of a woman seeking retribution for the injustices she has faced. This evolution is not merely about seeking revenge; it embodies a profound understanding of the need for change. The narrative expands to include more female perspectives, offering insight into what a world shaped by women's perspectives and actions would entail. Through this lens, the story explores themes of empowerment, justice, and the desire for meaningful transformation.
The power struggle and quest for justice are central to the plot. Can you give us a glimpse into the new conflicts and challenges Jia faces in this instalment?
Upon completing "The Khan," I found myself drawn back to its pages for a second read. Reflecting on its publication, I realised that despite Jiah Khan's strength and resilience as a woman, she still navigates within a predominantly male-dominated world. This realisation sparked a desire to bring more female characters into the narrative. The narrative delves into the complexities that arise when Jiah finds herself in a position of power amidst a patriarchal society, juxtaposed with the stagnant circumstances faced by the women in her community. The sequel introduces new antagonists, including Henry Paxton and Meera Shah, adding depth to the conflicts faced by the characters. I hope readers will find the continuation of Jiah's journey engaging and enjoyable—I certainly did.
One surprising aspect for me was the reception of Sakina, initially a side character in "The Khan." While I hadn't envisioned her as a central figure, many British Asian women resonated with her character. This prompted me to delve deeper into her story, exploring the impact of opportunities, support, and mentorship on women's journeys. Reader feedback played a significant role in shaping this exploration.
How important is it for you to represent your culture in your writing, and what challenges have you faced in doing so?
As a British-Pakistani writer, my cultural background naturally influences my writing—it shapes the things I love, the familiar aspects of life, and the frustrations I encounter. When I tell stories, the characters and narrative often take on a life of their own, reflecting my experiences and perspectives. However, I'm mindful that I can't fully capture the diversity of my culture or the spectrum of women's experiences as a single storyteller. While I primarily write crime fiction, I strive to include diverse characters to add depth and richness to the narrative.
I aimed to capture the essence of being an Asian woman through my writing, portraying the strength, intelligence, and resilience that I see in the women around me. While acknowledging the challenges we face, I also wanted to celebrate the beauty and richness of our culture—the humour, the traditions, the sense of sisterhood, and the deep respect for family and elders. My goal was to present these aspects in a commercially appealing way, rather than in a purely intellectual discourse. I wanted to depict British Asian women engaging in the same dynamic and multifaceted activities as characters like Michael Corleone from "The Godfather." Writing in this style was immensely enjoyable, allowing me to explore these themes in a fun and engaging manner.
What do you hope readers take away from "Vengeance: The Khan 2"? Is there a particular message or feeling you want to leave them with?
Here's the advice I'd offer to my younger self and to aspiring writers: Write freely without inhibition, allowing your story to flow without interruption. Don't pause to critique or revise as you go—just focus on capturing the essence of your narrative as it resonates with you. Once you've completed your first draft, set it aside for a while before revisiting it. Take the time to identify and appreciate the passages that shine with your unique voice and style. Then, after a few weeks, return to your draft with fresh eyes, ready to dive into the editing process. Remember, every writer faces doubts about their work, especially in the early stages. Embrace the imperfection of your initial draft, knowing that refinement will come with time and revision. Trust in your process and allow your story to evolve naturally.
