I have never been a particularly disciplined writer — and that’s probably because I never needed a specific setting to write. I could (and still can) write anywhere, anytime. I often talk about The Metromanic Chronicles, my shortest book, which I wrote while traveling in Delhi’s transit system — the Delhi Metro. That book, like much of my work, came from observing people around me and turning everyday situations into stories.
So, when I started contemplating the idea of writing a treasure hunt story, I asked myself — what time period would make it truly come alive? I eventually zeroed in on early eighteenth-century India, a tumultuous era when the Mughal Empire was losing control and the British (along with other non-Mughal powers) were rapidly gaining influence.
That backdrop gave me the perfect setting for my fantasy-action-adventure historical fiction series, The Hunter Genesis. It allowed me to weave together threads from ancient India, mythology, and real historical figures and events into a fast-paced, immersive tale that blended imagination with history.
The Hunter Genesis series worked like magic — true to its subject — and opened a portal to countless new stories waiting to be told.
When I once again wanted to revisit the treasure hunt theme but set it in a modern context, I chose the early 2000s instead of the present day for Chasing Shadows. Why? Because that was such an interesting time for technology — advanced enough to be useful, but not so invasive that it killed the mystery. Social media wasn’t everywhere yet (thankfully!), so I didn’t have to worry about staging an action scene only to have it “leaked” online by an accidental bystander with a smartphone.
Back then, mobile phones were classy — those gorgeous flip phones with backlit keypads! And from a storyteller’s point of view, it was the perfect setup: no GPS, no Google Maps, no easy online tracking. Everything had to be done manually, which added a sense of realism and tension. I took a few creative liberties with the technology of that time, of course, but it was all in good fun.
That’s how I ended up creating a fast-paced treasure hunt set in the early 2000s in Scarborough, against the backdrop of World War II and escaping Nazis. One of my favorite parts of that book is a mall that features prominently in the story — a place that no longer exists in real life. A loyal Scarborian reader later told me that the reference made them nostalgic, which, for me, was the highest compliment.
My journey in historical fiction continues with my upcoming novel, The Phantom of Freedom. This story dives into the heart of India’s freedom struggle of the 1940s, told through the lens of a daring heist. I’ll admit, I was initially torn about whether to use the real name of one of India’s greatest freedom fighters in a fictional narrative. But the answer came naturally — as long as I treated the character with respect and dignity, it was not only acceptable but meaningful.
So, should you use historical events and real figures in your fiction? My answer is a wholehearted yes. Do it — but do it with care. Treat history with the respect it deserves, even as you add your creative touch to reimagine it.
For me, The Phantom of Freedom is not just another story — it’s a tribute. Since childhood, I’ve admired this particular freedom fighter. His fiery speeches (many of which are still available online) were a source of inspiration for me even as a kid growing up in the 1980s. To now feature him, respectfully, in one of my books is both an honor and a privilege.
As always, if you have thoughts, feedback, or even grievances about my approach to storytelling, I’m easy to find. You can reach me online through my website: www.jasveersinghdangi.com.
The Phantom of Freedom will be exclusively available on Inkitt on Nov 15, 2025.
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