An Interview with Naira Khan

Naira Khan is an emerging author known for weaving powerful stories that explore deep emotional journeys and cultural complexities. Her latest novel, Mist and Unappeased Spirits, masterfully blends romance, mystery, and Zimbabwean mythology, taking readers on a captivating adventure through the mystical Mount Nyangani. The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and spiritual encounters, all while addressing personal struggles and societal expectations.

Naira’s debut novel, Sun on Your Back, introduced readers to a vivid world of family dynamics and personal trauma, exploring the life of Diara and her abusive father, Andre. A compelling short story followed: “Andre’s Story,” which gives a deeper insight into the creation of Diara’s father, who tragically dies in an accidental turn of events.

Beyond fiction, Naira is deeply committed to advocating for women’s and children’s rights, drawing from their real-world experience to add authenticity and sensitivity to their work’s abuse, recovery, and resilience themes. When not writing, Naira enjoys traveling, photography, and engaging with readers on social media, sharing stories and inspiration from their travels.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

My writing is deeply inspired by my experiences as a psychologist and my work advocating for children’s and women’s rights. Over the years, I’ve encountered countless stories of resilience, struggle, and hope. These powerful narratives have shaped my understanding of human nature and fuelled my desire to tell stories that reflect both the harsh realities and the strength found in adversity. Through my writing, I aim to amplify the voices of those who often go unheard.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

My inspiration for Mist and Unappeased Spirits comes from the mysterious disappearances on Mount Nyangani while I lived in Zimbabwe. These tragedies, including the disappearance of two teenage girls who were at school with my sisters, and the more recent loss of a family member, left a profound impact on me. The mountain’s enigmatic nature and these unresolved events shaped the story, blending real-life mystery with the spiritual unknown.

Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

The title started as a working title, but so much interest was sparked by it during the writing process that it became a permanent fixture. Mist and Unappeased Spirits came naturally as they reflect the dual explanations for the disappearances on Mount Nyangani. Some attribute these losses to sudden weather changes that disorient hikers, while others believe they’re caused by angered spirits protecting the mountain from intrusion or wrongdoing. I wanted the title to capture natural and supernatural possibilities, allowing readers to question which forces might truly be at work in these mysterious events.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

This novel has a unique love story that takes flight from Edinburgh to London and soars across continents to Zimbabwe. I would like the background music to represent these different environments.

Scotland: “Braveheart Theme” by James Horner. This represents the deep connection to Scotland, evoking emotion and resilience.

London(UK): “The Way It Is” by Bruce Hornsby for a reflective tone in city scenes.

Zimbabwe: “The Misty Mountain” – The Hobbit Soundtrack. Reflects the mystical, mysterious atmosphere of Zimbabwe’s Mount Nyangani.

Then some songs are part of the storyline as the main protagonist sings. These include:

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley

“Jai Ho” – A. R. Rahman

“Morning of My Life” – The Bee Gees

“Another Love” – Tom Odell

“Africa” – Toto

Describe your dream book cover.

All my book covers are painted by a professional artist. The book cover for Mist and Unappeased Spirits features a serene watercolour landscape. The scene depicts a woman sitting on rocky terrain, gazing at Mount Nyangani surrounded by lush green hills. Above, a dramatic sky filled with swirling clouds adds a sense of mystery and depth. The title is elegantly scripted, blending harmoniously with the misty, ethereal atmosphere of the painting. The overall feel is contemplative and mystical. inviting readers into a world of introspection and wonder.

The back cover has a watercolour painting of a mermaid adds an element of fantasy of intrigue, symbolising an important aspect of the story. Below, is a missing person poster that introduces a mystery element, suggesting a deeper narrative thread. The overall design ties together themes of love, struggle, and the search for answers against a backdrop of captivating imagery.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I trained and worked as a psychologist. with a focus. on children with learning and emotional difficulties. Following this my interest moved towards research and interventions to protect children and women from violence.

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

My research process included secondary sources such as newspapers and sociological publications. In addition, interviews were conducted with villagers and residents in and around Mount Nyangani. My books of comfort are always Pride and Prejudice and Wuthering Heights.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

My writings aim to highlight the obstacles faced by women of colour in and out of relationships.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.