Inside the Mind - Rezaul Karim

I’ve always been fascinated by stories—the way they can transport us to different worlds, explore human emotions, and spark the imagination. Writing started as a way for me to give life to the ideas and worlds that kept unfolding in my mind. Over time, it became more than just a personal outlet; it became a way to connect with readers, share experiences, and explore themes that resonate with people. In short, my inspiration comes from a mix of curiosity, imagination, and the desire to communicate ideas in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

My latest book, The Battle of the Red Land, is a fantasy epic set in the mystical world of Bindakia. It follows the journey of heroes, strategists, and warriors as they navigate war, intrigue, and personal challenges in a land on the brink of chaos. The story combines thrilling battles, complex characters, and deep philosophical themes about leadership, sacrifice, and destiny. I wanted to create a world that feels immersive and alive, where readers can experience both the intensity of the battlefield and the intricate emotions of the characters. Ultimately, it’s a story about courage, strategy, and the bonds that hold people—and nations—together.

I create my characters by first envisioning the world they live in. I’ve built my own universe called Bindakia, and within this world, my characters come to life. Their personalities, choices, and journeys are shaped by the environment, culture, and challenges of Bindakia. Essentially, the world gives rise to the characters, and through them, my imagination unfolds the stories.

A typical writing day for me usually starts with planning and reviewing what I wrote the day before. I dedicate focused hours to developing the plot, expanding the world of Bindakia, and deepening my characters’ journeys. I like to write in uninterrupted stretches, allowing my imagination to flow freely, but I also take short breaks to reflect and ensure the story maintains its direction and emotional depth. Every day is a balance between creativity and discipline, and by the end, I aim to have moved the story forward in a meaningful way.

The most rewarding part of being an indie author is the creative freedom it gives me. I have complete control over the world of Bindakia, the characters, and the stories I want to tell. I can explore my imagination fully without external constraints, and the most satisfying moment is when readers connect with my work, share their thoughts, and immerse themselves in the world I’ve created. There’s a unique joy in knowing that every choice, every detail, and every story beat is entirely mine.

One challenge I face in my writing journey is the financial uncertainty many authors experience. Writing doesn’t always provide a steady income, so I often have to balance another job to make a living. Managing time and energy between earning a livelihood and dedicating myself to writing can be difficult, but I try to stay disciplined and make the most of every moment I can devote to my stories.

I primarily use Microsoft Word for writing. It’s simple, reliable, and allows me to focus on the story without distractions. I also use its features for organizing chapters, tracking edits, and formatting my manuscript, which makes the writing and revision process much smoother.

My advice to new or aspiring indie authors is simple: only write a story you truly feel compelled to tell. Don’t force yourself to create something just because it seems popular or marketable. The best stories come from within—from genuine passion and personal connection. When your writing comes from a place of sincerity, readers can feel it, and that’s what makes a story truly resonate.

As an indie author, I don’t have the resources for large-scale book promotion. However, I make use of occasional free book promotion opportunities on Amazon KDP to reach readers. Besides that, I share posts and updates about my books across different social media platforms to engage with readers and let people know about my work. It’s a modest approach, but it helps me connect with my audience.

Next, I’m working on a new book in the Bindakia series titled The Rise of the Shadow Throne. It continues to explore the rich world of Bindakia, following new characters and adventures while expanding on the stories readers have already come to know and love. I’m excited to bring more of this universe to life and share it with my audience.