Shadows of the Undetected is a gripping thriller. What inspired you to write this story?
“Shadows of the Undetected” was born out of my deep fascination with thriller and suspense genres. I’ve always been drawn to stories that keep readers on edge, where every twist challenges perceptions of truth and morality. The idea of a detective navigating a world where justice isn’t black and white intrigued me. I wanted to craft a narrative that wasn’t just about solving a case, but about the weight of choices, the unpredictability of human nature, and the shadows that lie beneath the surface. This book is my way of immersing readers in a gripping, high-stakes journey where nothing is as it seems.
Detective Kevin faces intense challenges in the book. How did you develop his character?
Detective Kevin’s character was developed with a focus on realism, resilience, and moral conflict. As a fan of thrillers and suspense, I wanted to create a protagonist who is not just a sharp investigator but also deeply human—flawed, driven, and constantly battling internal and external challenges. His journey is shaped by the weight of past decisions, the blurred lines between right and wrong, and the emotional toll of his profession. I built his character through layers of experiences—his relationships, his personal struggles, and the ethical dilemmas he faces. He’s not a hero in the conventional sense but a man trying to navigate a world where justice is rarely straightforward.
The novel is set in Vancouver. Why did you choose this location, and how does it shape the story?
I chose Vancouver as the setting for Shadows of the Undetected because its vibrant yet mysterious atmosphere perfectly complements the novel’s themes of suspense and hidden dangers. The city’s diverse landscape—modern urban spaces, dense forests, and waterfronts—provides the perfect backdrop for a thriller where secrets lurk in both crowded streets and isolated corners. Vancouver’s unpredictable weather and misty ambiance enhance the novel’s tension, making it an ideal playground for Detective Kevin’s investigations. Additionally, its global nature allows for a mix of cultures, influences, and crime networks, adding depth and complexity to the unfolding mystery.
The antagonist is highly intelligent and mysterious. What makes a great villain in a crime thriller?
A great villain in a crime thriller is more than just an obstacle for the protagonist—they are a force that challenges the hero on every level. I wanted the antagonist in Shadows of the Undetected to be highly intelligent, unpredictable, and morally complex. A compelling villain should have a purpose beyond just chaos; their motives should be layered, making their actions feel unsettlingly rational, even if twisted. The best antagonists are those who force the protagonist to question their own beliefs, push them to their limits, and blur the line between right and wrong. By crafting a villain who is always one step ahead, I aimed to create a psychological battle that keeps readers on edge, wondering who will outsmart whom in the end.
Can you share your writing process? Do you plan everything in advance or let the story unfold naturally?
My writing process is a mix of structured planning and organic storytelling. Since I love thrillers and suspense, I start with a rough outline—major plot points, key twists, and the psychological depth of my characters. However, I also leave room for spontaneity, allowing the story to evolve naturally as I write. Often, my characters take unexpected turns, and that unpredictability keeps the narrative fresh and engaging. I focus heavily on pacing, ensuring each chapter adds tension and drives the plot forward. Research is also a crucial part of my process, especially for crime and investigative details, to make the story feel authentic. Ultimately, while I have a roadmap, I embrace the surprises that come along the way, making the writing journey as thrilling as the final story itself.
What challenges did you face while writing Shadows of the Undetected, and how did you overcome them?
Writing Shadows of the Undetected came with its own set of challenges, the biggest being maintaining a balance between suspense, realism, and character depth. As a fan of thrillers, I wanted every twist to feel organic, not forced, which meant refining the plot multiple times to keep the mystery gripping. Researching investigative procedures and crime dynamics also required meticulous effort to ensure authenticity. At times, writer’s block and self-doubt crept in, but I overcame them by stepping away, revisiting my inspirations, and trusting the story to unfold at its own pace. Staying immersed in the world of crime thrillers—through books, films, and real-life cases—helped me push through the challenges and bring the story to life with the intensity it deserved.
Who are your biggest literary influences, and how have they shaped your writing style?
My writing style has been shaped by a mix of classic and contemporary literary influences, each contributing a unique element to my storytelling. Fyodor Dostoevsky has deeply influenced my approach to psychological depth, especially in exploring moral dilemmas and the complexities of the human mind. Kafka’s sense of existential dread and surreal tension adds layers to my narrative, making my characters question their realities. Haruki Murakami’s mastery of blending the ordinary with the mysterious has inspired me to create atmospheric tension that lingers beyond the pages. On the contemporary side, Khaled Hosseini’s emotionally rich storytelling has taught me the importance of character-driven narratives, while Lisa Jewell’s intricate thrillers have influenced my approach to suspense and layered mysteries. These authors have collectively shaped my voice, allowing me to craft a crime thriller that is both gripping and introspective, blending psychological depth with intense, unpredictable storytelling.
Are there any hidden clues or Easter eggs in the book that readers should look out for?
Yes! Shadows of the Undetected has several hidden clues and Easter eggs woven throughout the narrative, rewarding attentive readers. Some of them foreshadow major twists, while others subtly hint at character motivations and backstories. I’ve deliberately placed recurring symbols—like specific numbers, objects, and phrases—that hold deeper meaning as the story unfolds. Certain dialogues and seemingly minor details in the early chapters connect to key revelations later, making a second read even more intriguing. Additionally, fans of classic literature and thrillers might catch references to authors like Dostoevsky, Kafka, and Murakami, subtly integrated into the text. For those who love unraveling mysteries, these hidden elements add an extra layer of suspense and discovery!
What’s next for you? Are you working on another thriller or exploring a different genre?
Thrillers and suspense stories have always been my passion, so my next project will definitely continue in that vein. I’m currently working on another thriller, but this time with a deeper psychological and philosophical angle—blurring the lines between perception and reality, much like Kafka and Murakami’s works. It will explore not just crime and investigation but also the inner struggles of the mind, delving into themes of identity, memory, and the consequences of past actions.
Additionally, I’m excited to share that a sequel to Shadows of the Undetected is already in progress! The next installment will take Detective Kevin into even darker and more unpredictable territory, testing his limits like never before. Readers can expect more intricate twists, deeper character explorations, and a mystery that expands beyond what they imagined. Whether it’s this sequel, a standalone psychological thriller, or something entirely unexpected, I’m committed to delivering another gripping and thought-provoking story soon!
Where can readers buy your book?
Readers can purchase Shadows of the Undetected from multiple platforms for their convenience. The book is available on Literatureslight, Amazon, Flipkart, Google Play Books, and Kindle worldwide. Whether you prefer a paperback or an e-book, you can find it on these platforms and dive into the thrilling journey of Detective Kevin. Thank you for your support, and I hope you enjoy the suspense and mystery that unfolds in its pages!
Are you on social media? How can readers connect with you?
Yes, I’m active on social media and always love connecting with readers! You can reach out to me via email at sunnyrudh@gmail.com for any inquiries, discussions, or feedback about Shadows of the Undetected. You can also connect with me on Instagram at @sunnyrudh, where I share updates about my writing, behind-the-scenes insights, and thoughts on thriller and suspense stories. I’d love to hear from you—whether it’s your thoughts on the book, your favorite crime thrillers, or just a chat about storytelling and mysteries!
Thanks for answering our questions! Is there anything else you’d like to share with your readers?
Thank you for having me! I just want to express my deepest gratitude to all my readers who have embarked on this thrilling journey with Shadows of the Undetected. Writing this book has been an incredible experience, and knowing that it resonates with readers makes it all the more special.
For those who love suspense, mystery, and psychological twists—there’s much more to come! The sequel is already in progress, and I promise it will take Detective Kevin into even darker, more complex territory.
I’d also love to hear your thoughts—what surprised you, what theories you had while reading, and what you’d like to see next. Feel free to connect with me on Instagram (@sunnyrudh) or via email (sunnyrudh@gmail.com).
Once again, thank you for your support, and keep chasing the truth—because in the world of thrillers, nothing is ever as it seems!
Sunnyrudh Singh, hailing from Faridkot, Punjab, is an accomplished co-author of multiple books, including Strange Tides, Moonstuck, Coffee and You, Blissful Love, Holding On, My Old Heart, Aafreen, Fragments You Left Behind, Meraki, Half Moon, Seagulls in the Rain, Carnival of Emotions, Blooming Hearts, Sparkles Within Us, and Sarang. A passionate writer, Sunnyrudh believes in crafting words that evoke deep emotions. His journey into poetry and storytelling was sparked by an Eminem song, igniting his love for expressive writing. With an insatiable appetite for literature, he continues to explore new narratives, believing that the road ahead is long but worth every step.
