Nagwa Malik, author of spy novel The Mist, says her work is not about the ISI.
I do not believe in distorting facts for fiction. I prefer to integrate facts to fiction for an entertaining read,” says Nagwa Malik, author of spy novel The Mist.
Her book, a thriller that revolves around Tanya, a Pakistani spy working for an unofficial intelligence agency, comes at a time when controversies about the nation’s intelligence groups abound.
However, Malik makes it clear from the start that she is not writing against the Inter-Services Intelligence of Pakistan (ISI).
“Depicting the ISI as the bad guys has become a norm,” says the lecturer of French and scriptwriting at Beaconhouse National University. “[On the other hand], the CIA gets away with crimes against humanity and violation of international laws everyday, only to be called heroes by their government.”
According to her, it is crucial to portray both sides of a story, which is why she has focused on incorporating facts into her work of fiction.
“My novel is based on my experiences and research,” she states categorically.
Tanya, the protagonist, is tasked with uncovering the truth behind the War on Terror and putting an end to militant activities in the country.
In this vein, the plot that takes the spy on quite a journey – from home to the West, then back home again – keeps the reader on edge. Along the way, truths about many a conspiracy theory are revealed. “Everyone likes a thriller,” Malik asserts.
A barred local market
Ironically, the publisher of this book does not sell in the local market. Readers have approached Malik with requests to make the novel available in the country.
“Unfortunately, this is not possible right now. The book is available online, though,” she says, adding that it has been well-received by readers abroad.
Now, Malik is working on a second book, an off-shoot of this one. This novel will focus on Pakistan and its national politics.
While she has written a number of books and short stories over the years, The Mist is her first published work of fiction.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 26th, 2013.
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This is a very exciting and fast-paced read. The characters, places and scenes are well depicted. The pages are littered with facts, suspense and so many turns and twists. I could not put the book down till I read the last page. It is a total page turner.
The best part about this book is it is not predictable at all. I had to work out exactly what was going on and who was on what side which was refreshing; and the writer's desriptions-they were very detailed and gave a wonderful impression of setting, characters, and the general surroundings. There was also a very subtle romantic plot.I liked the way that she was able to make me guess and wonder what was going to happen. A wonderful read. Can't wait for Book Two.
thank you @Dan Tonkin: and to the others there's a special countdown deal right now for a week on kindle. Take advantage of it while you can.
I have read some of The Mist and have found it both surprising and intriguing. The way the characters are portrayed are very well done and the style of the story is terrific. I brilliant read! Well done Nagwa!
Just finished the book, an amazing read. The book hooks you from the 1st page and keeps you hooked till the last. The book has just the right amount of intrigue, mystery and thrill. Way to go Nagwa
iv read nagwa's book way back in 94 as a child. i really liked it. its too bad that her book 'the mist' has not yet published here in pakistan. would have been very nice to read a thrill, near to reality, at home with peace... i hope it publishes soon here... best of luck to the author for fouture :)
Thank you so much Brian, your support meant and means alot@Brian Chambers:
Well done Magwa I knew this would be a winner for you when I first read it. You deserve all the praise you are going to receive. Best wishes for the future. Brian.
Don't worry, there is going to be, hopefully, lots of romance in book two. Took your advise into consideration :)
I have read this book. An interesting read indeed. I think Miss Malik must add some spice in her next novel in terms of details of individuals/non central characters.. some romance going on somewhere..cos a totally 'facts' novel no matter how true needs some blending with side issues.Im not a novelist,I might be wrong.
Hi, Just would like to make a minor correction. The Mist is not the first published book. The first book published was around 94 named The Terrific Three, an adventure novel for kids. Thank you.